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The Last Page
Or Updated January 26, 2012 From the Pastor of Congregational Care and Spiritual Formation
A Ministry of Reconciliation— The old life is gone; a new life burgeons! Look at it! All this comes from the God who settled the relationship between us and him, and then called us to settle our relationships with each other. God put the world square with himself through the Messiah, giving the world a fresh start by offering forgiveness of sins. God has given us the task of telling everyone what he is doing. We’re Christ’s representatives. God uses us to persuade men and women to drop their differences and enter into God’s work of making things right between them. We’re speaking for Christ himself now: Become friends with God; he’s already a friend with you. Cor 5:17-20, The Message
I have reflected often on our ministry of reconciliation (2 Cor 5:19, NIV) since Jan Wood’s teaching on grief and loss Sunday morning. Specifically, I was struck by my limited understanding of what a ministry of reconciliation may look like. I’m not knocking it, but for most of us the ministry of reconciliation may look like intercessory prayer or an invitation to become a mediator in more extreme examples. While every Christian can become involved in intercessory prayer, not all will become mediators. So, what other opportunities exist in a ministry of reconciliation?
I like Jan’s example of “standing in” for those who, because of their loss/pain, are unable to repent or forgive others for real or perceived losses caused by unmet expectations. Although we may not be responsible for these losses, we can “stand in”, repent and/or receive forgiveness for the hurt caused by others. Privately, two people can “stand in” until such time the wounded individuals can come together and forgive one another. Before we dismiss the importance of a “stand-in” ministry, consider what Christ has done for us. Did He not “stand in” for us before the Father until such time we could ask forgiveness for our sin?
A “stand in” ministry is not difficult to begin or maintain: Find a stand-in partner. Then on behalf of friends or biological and/or church family members, privately ask forgiveness on behalf of those who are in broken relationships. Continue to offer intercessory prayer and “stand in” whenever any new hurts emerge. Welcome to your ministry of reconciliation. Carol Whorton
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