God’s grace is available to all but can fill only those who are emptied of themselves. Pride is an attachment to self that breeds jealousy, selfish ambition, and discord. A humble heart, on the other hand, is shaped by godly wisdom and seeks peace, good works, and fellowship with others. The humble are blessed because they know how to offer and receive forgiveness.
Truth provides the only solid ground for rebuilding a damaged relationship. Refusing to acknowledge the truth about a hurtful event may seem protective at first but in the long run only postpones healing. Although full disclosure may not be necessary, we can make sure that the words we do speak are truthful and tempered with patience, gentleness, and respect for the person who receives them.
As we approach the season of advent, we honor the Son who is called the Prince of Peace. For us, becoming like Jesus means living into peace and forgiveness as our preferred ways of handling relationships. Christ establishes his kingdom of peace through our daily encounters by infusing our ordinary deeds with God’s extraordinary grace. Because of Christ we can offer patience, kindness, love, and mercy to a world that expects judgment, bitterness, and retaliation for an injury suffered.
The gift of language is a serious responsibility. Our malicious words can sting and cripple worse than the proverbial sticks and stones. On the other hand, kind and forgiving words can encourage people and restore relationships. Our careful use of language can be especially powerful in conflict situations, where anger and insults may be expected. God will use our obedient mouths to speak love into the lives of those who need to hear it and restore damaged hearts in ways we cannot see.
Jesus tells us it is not enough to let go of malice toward our enemies. We must go the next difficult step as well and cultivate benevolence. We are truly practicing forgiveness when we can honestly endorse whatever is good and healing for the person who caused our suffering. To bless and not curse, to pray for rather than to condemn, shows a heart that is surrendered to the rule of love.
