To be a real Christian IX

October 7, 7:46 AMAtlanta Protestant ExaminerRonald Thibeault

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Many years ago a good man died leaving his wife and three older children, one son and two daughters. He left his wife the house so she was well taken care of the rest of her years. The son, the oldest was left in control of the money. He decided to spend the money honoring his father with a nice cemetery plot and beautiful grave stone instead of splitting the money equally with his two sisters. His two sisters angered vowed never to speak to him again. For them their brother was dead and though he lived a mere twenty miles away, they never saw each other until their mother’s death.

The problem with hatred and being unforgiving is that it is so much like death. People who have been divorced describe it as being worse than losing their spouse to the grave. Why? They feel this way because the hurt never goes away. The pain never heals. In death, the sadness passes on to joy when memories of good times had return. Without forgiveness, hatred blocks the healing process rendering us bitter. Could this be why Christ tells us,

"You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment. 'But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment…. Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift."  "Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still with him on the way, or he may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. I tell you the truth, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny. Matthew 5:21-25

Thankfully, Christ gives us instructions on how to be reconciled. If your brother has something against you, do not leave any offering on the altar. Why? God cannot honor a gift from a sinful and hateful heart. God loves a cheerful giver. Hatred is contrary to God’s nature. Go and be reconciled to your brother. Restore the relationship, then come and make your offering joyfully to God.

Next, settle your differences quickly. Do not waste your time. How many people have waited until too late to reconcile with mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, and children? "If only I’d…?"

Do not wait until the time is too late. Exhibit an attitude of forgiveness, not hatred.