I was on Maui when I read it this article and felt it was written just for us at Resurrection, especially the last two sentences. Not only do I think that the people who are still with us should read it but if there was some way to reach those who left our congregation, I think that would be great.
Read Matthew 7:1-4
Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:32(NRSV)
"Recently some members of my church have expressed opposition to a new policy. To me, their complaints show spiritual immaturity and appear to neglect important spiritual principles. Although I refrained from speaking angry words in order to avoid conflict, my thoughts about the issue still contain much anger. I felt justified in my feelings because in my view it was righteous and godly anger.
The issue led me to recall Jesus driving out the money-changers who were using the temple for inappropriate purposes (Mark11:15-19). Often I would have identified myself with Jesus and his righteous anger. But this time God led me to consider how often I have been less than worshipful in church, or how I have served for selfish reasons rather than godly ones.
As I thought about my own motives, I realized that even though I may have a reason to be angry at these church members, I am not to judge them; I have been in their position often enough to know that I cannot. Instead of harboring angry thoughts, I decided to pray for strength and wisdom for our church leaders, that they may resolve the dispute peacefully and harmoniously.
PRAYER: Dear Father, give us a forgiving heart, and help us remember that you ask us not to judge others. May we proclaim peace and unity, in our pews as well as in the streets. Amen."