HOPING FOR REUNION?

 

HOPING FOR REUNION?

Amos 3:3 Can two walk together, except they be agreed?  

  Once upon a time I naively thought forgiveness naturally resulted in reconciliation. It doesn’t, for they are two distinctly different matters. Forgiveness given by a person does not automatically reconcile the forgiver and the recipient(s) of forgiveness. The offender(s) may even reject forgiveness and deliberately widen the gulf.

  I was reminded of this while reading yet another book* on anger this week. I’ve condensed some of the helpful points.

·         Forgiveness may be given. Reconciliation requires at least two people.

·         Forgiveness is extended in one direction. Reconciliation involves reciprocal response.

·         Forgiveness is deciding to release. Reconciliation is the work to rejoin.

·         Forgiveness involves repentance. Reconciliation also involves thought and behavioral change.

·         Forgiveness is a free gift. Reconciliation requires acceptance.

·         Forgiveness initiates trust. Reconciliation requires collegiality.

·         Forgiveness is given. Reconciliation is earned.

·         Forgiveness is unconditional. Reconciliation is conditional.

  An additional applicable cautionary note: Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go: Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul. (Pr.22:24-25)

EBB4

*ANGER, Facing the Fire within, by June Hunt