Be tolerant with one another and forgive one another whenever any of you has a complaint against someone else. You must forgive one another just as the Lord has forgiven you. Colossians 3:13 GNT
We have all heard the stories of long feuds between relatives, or perhaps it's happened in your families. Something that occurred long ago to create hard feelings and division. Sadly, some people go to the grave without attempted resolution—all those terrible years of pain and hate.
To live as Christ, we should not allow those situations to continue. Instead, we are to make allowances for each other and appreciate that each of us is human and makes mistakes–sometimes hurtful. However, this does not mean we approve of the actions, but despite the offense, be tolerant and offer forgiveness.
We also must look at our reflection in the mirror, for sadly, sometimes we are the people who have caused harm. If not to another person, we sin against God by our actions. However, when we do, we humbly and earnestly repent and ask Him for forgiveness, which he quickly gives, not inflicting punishment but pardoning us ultimately. In this same way, we must offer forgiveness to others.
God, we thank you for the compassion and forgiveness you show us. We confess that we have been intolerant of others and withheld forgiveness. Father, forgive our sins and give us the heart of your Son to love when it is most difficult. We pray this in Jesus' mighty name. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
