“Reconciliation” – It’s not a four-letter word.

What do you feel when I use the “R”-word? For many divorced people, the hair on the back of their necks stands up as they think about the prospect of remarrying their former spouse. While one can lead to the other, the two are not synonymous. Reconciliation is defined simply as “the reestablishment of friendly relations.” Too often, people hold on to the guilt or bitterness that developed in their marriages and continue to punish their ex-spouse and others for years. This bitterness and guilt affects all our relationships. If you can find it in your heart to forgive yourself and the ones who’ve hurt you, you may find that interactions with your estranged or former spouse don’t need to turn into power struggles. Changes in your heart may prompt changes in their heart that can lead to “the reestablishment of friendly relations.” If you have children, the effects of renewed civility can be life-changing. It all starts with you. Tune in tomorrow to learn more about forgiveness . . .

Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to that person; then come and offer your gift. (Matthew 5:23–24)