Saturday, July 27. 2013

My dearest God,

When your children hurt, you rush to their aid.  You whisper encouragement.  You pour out your mercy and compassion.

So many times I have witnessed the ways you help your beloved.  You use every means to reach those you love and I believe you love us all.  I am stunned by the extent to which you go to speak to us.

I must confess I was resistant to be forgiving.  Two days ago I was pained by a silly incident.  I was tired because I had worked hard all day long so I didn't have much reserve to "fight" back.  But then I got a phone call from my daughter who through her own sharing of faith pricked my need to forgive. But I didn't because something else was said that motivated me to hold on to my feelings.  Then yesterday a friend called and I found myself telling her how faith can change things, make a difference in our lives. Even as we spoke I realized you had come to me through two women to challenge me to remedy my situation, to apologize and to forgive.

Later as the two of us sat down and talked, forgiveness came easy.  Confessing my part in the conflict was a little harder but still I did it.  Our talk was helpful aiding us in the ways we communicate with one another.  You were the third party at the kitchen table.

Thank you,
O God,
for reminding me
of the need
for forgiveness.
You showed me
once again
how forgiveness
cleanses the soul
and gives
an opportunity
for growth
in so
many ways.
Thank you
for your mercy
for this
recalcitrant child.

Love, Andrea