Tuesday; November 28

When people offend us, what do we expect of them?  Certainly, we look for an apology and, most of us hope that they make things right.  Sometimes this is merely accomplished with a sincere “Thank You”, but there are other times when we expect more – either some change in behavior or, on those rare occasions, some type of physical restitution.   I mean, fair is fair, right?
Now, let’s turn the tables … when we offend someone what do we expect from ourselves?  For the moment, let’s not talk about those we mistakenly offend by an inadvertent action, what do we do when we know that we are at odds with others?  The most common reaction is hoping that they didn’t notice what we did, but when it becomes apparent we offended them, then what?   Most often we wait for them to approach us and ask for an apology, but is that the right answer?  Shouldn’t we be proactive in addressing the situation and finding the appropriate remedy?
When Jesus reviewed the responsibilities of His people He reminded us of the importance of our actions by saying, “… if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.”.  (Matthew 5:23-24)  In essence, we can’t be at peace with God until we make peace with our fellow man.
It is freeing to be aggressive in seeking forgiveness.  We will never have to worry about grudges others secretly hold against us if we are the first to offer and make peace.  We don’t have to avoid seeing people we have offended because the bad blood has been treated. 
Do we need to make amends?  Let’s stop merely worrying about the feelings of others and start healing them.
Think About It!

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