"My friends, if anyone is detected in a transgression, you who have received the Spirit should restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness. Take care that you yourselves are not tempted."
Thought:
Transgressions and mistakes, we
all make them. We are far from perfect, but we are to all seek reconciliation in
our mistakes and be willing to accept ownership in what we do. Today, a man was
sentenced for the death of another man. A mistake, a mistake that calls for
reconciliation, accountability and healing. Hear the Good News, though we
make mistakes, there are opportunities for us to make amends, ask forgiveness.
Asking for forgiveness does not mean that we are not to be held accountable for
our actions, nor does it mean there should not be mercy. This fine line of
responding to our brothers and sisters in need must be done with love. This can
and is done by helping to bear the pain of one another and not letting them know
they are alone. We must also love them by holding them accountable. This man who
is sentenced, sentenced for man-slaughter, is not the one, nor the family of the
victim, but life and society also pay a price. As brothers and sisters in
Christ, we are called to reach out to all who have been effected by
transgressions, lift them up and let them know they are loved and not alone;
victim and defendant both. Gracious Father, You have loved me even
though I have been one filled with transgression. Mistake after mistake, I walk
through life, and You are there. You lift me up, and as I am held accountable
for my mistakes, in one way or another, you bring comfort and forgiveness to my
side. Let me love others the way You love so unconditionally. We all make the
mistakes, yet you still love us, what a wonderful God You are. Thank You for all
that You have done in my life and all You will continue to do, for I ask this
through Christ, my Lord and Savior. Amen.