October 11, 2020, Day 3
Reconciliation can be an uncomfortable topic to talk about. I know it is for me. The old me would squirm in my seat and immediately shut out whoever was speaking when the topic was brought up. Confrontation plays a big part in reconciliation and it has always been a challenging role for me to take on. I have been the one to act like nothing is wrong in the moment and bottle it up until it rears its ugly head. I have learned the hard way that this can become detrimental to the relationship with whoever is involved. Forgiveness also plays a big role in reconciliation. Reconciliation has both parties involved when forgiveness is one-sided. I learned this past week at training how to forgive. I thought I had nailed the whole forgiveness thing, but came to realize that was not the case. After last week, I was so eager for reconciliation in my relationships back home that I forgot it will take time for the other parties involved. Holy Spirit quickly reminded me that it’s okay to be excited, healing is a great thing, but if you rush the process it can stunt the growth needed to allow healing to take place. Our squad mentor (shout out to Fran<3) talked about a plant she had that was slowly withering away. She had decided to wash the roots and place it in a vase full of water and within a certain amount of time, she saw growth again. This example really hit home for me. When certain relationships seem choked out, wash your roots. Forgive, and reconcile so that growth can take place again. I am nowhere near where I would like to be in this, but the Lord is working on my heart. I have forgiven those who I thought I had forgiven and let go of traumatic events that took place in my past and forgiven those involved. I have never had the peace that I have now. Little did I know, I hadn’t fully grasped the concept of forgiveness. It’s sad how just a touch of bitterness can still blur your perspective. Jesus has given me fresh eyes and started washing the roots. I’m expectant for growth but learning to not rush the process. I encourage you friend to allow Holy Spirit to do the same for you. If there is a relationship that you know needs reconciliation and forgiveness, hand it over to the Father and let Him take care of the roots. His heart is to see new life and growth, not watch you grow bitter. Until next time…
