cory bragg
well…

“But Jesus has a different vision of maturity: It is the ability and willingness to be led where you would rather not go…Jesus confronts [Peter] with the hard truth that the servant-leader is the leader who is being led to unknown, undesirable, and painful places.” (Nouwen, In the Name of Jesus, pg. 81)

I have my pride. I have my reputation at stake. Oh…how I want my way. Then the Spirit begins to speak…and it prompts me to be obedient in a way that asks me to let go of what I hold on to so tightly. Me.

The Spirit also challenges me with this question…”Do I take what Christ says seriously?” It begs me to come to grips with the fact that faith is so much more than giving mental assent to a list of statements we’ve written concerning our belief of God. Faith actually involves acting in obedience to what Christ commands. And not that what Christ commands is meant to constrict us…but it’s purpose is to free us. “My purpose is to give life in all its fullness” (John 10.10).

But do I trust this? Do I believe that God wants to give me LIFE? Am I bold enough to “take hold of the life that is truly life” (1 Timothy 6.19)? I do…mentally. But it’s a lot tougher in practice…especially when it means that I have to follow Him where I really don’t want to go.

Where am I going with all this? Well, I have fallen in love with what we have called the “Sermon on the Mount” (Matthew 5-7…or maybe I would call “Teachings on the Hill”). It is a powerful teaching from Jesus that really brings out the beauty of His Kingdom life, yet it is also a tough teaching because it makes us take a serious look at our hearts. One such teaching that I’ve been meditating on is that of forgiveness and reconciliation (Matthew 5.21-26).

“You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I will you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment…Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First, go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.” (v. 21-22, 23-24)

Anger. Choosing not to forgive. Murder. Hell on earth.

Forgiveness. Releasing someone in your heart. Reconciliation. Freedom. Life.

As I reflected on this passage of Scripture, I couldn’t run from it. I knew there were some people I needed to forgive. There were also some people I needed to ask forgiveness from. In particular, there was one person God kept putting on my heart to become reconciled with. You might be able to relate with someone in your life…you know that person that your heart doesn’t feel good about? That person you wouldn’t mind seeing them fail? That person you are willing to bash about? That person you can’t honestly wish blessing upon?

I feel very vulnerable sharing these ugly thoughts my heart can entertain, but I believe there is a good chance you all can relate on some level. And that’s the problem…they are ugly and wrong thoughts. They don’t represent the Gospel…the truly good news Christ came to announce…ultimately exemplified on the cross…the most beautiful picture of forgiveness. Do we see why forgiveness is so central to being a disciple of Christ? Without forgiveness, there is no healing. And without healing…well, I’m still living in my own internal hell.

So…I did something about it. I called up this particular person and asked them if they would like to get coffee. I came with the intent of sharing my hurts, seeking some clarification on things, and ultimately to ask for forgiveness for the ways I believe I wronged them. The time went well, and I can already see my heart experiencing some freedom. Forgiveness is a process…but I truly believe that when the Spirit is present, and the people involved can truly come humbly together, then reconciliation can become a reality. My prayer is that someday I will be able to wish nothing but blessing on their life.

May all of us become a people who trust the power of forgiving others. May we bring beauty out of anger. Amen.