Saturday, November 30, 2013

By: Rachelle Hitt Bilbo

Dreaded Get-Togethers

Matthew 10:8 Heal the sick, raise the dead, cure those with leprosy, and cast out demons. GIVE AS FREELY AS YOU HAVE RECEIVED!

There was once a young man who secretly misappropriated several hundred dollars of his business firm's money. When this action was discovered, he knew, without a doubt and with a heavy heart, that he would lose his position in the firm.  He also realized that he would possibly face legal action and that he and his family would find their world collapsing around them.

Upon arrival to the administrative office, the senior executive questioned the man about the entire affair. The young man held nothing back but admitted every illegal act including his wish that he could have the opportunity to do things differently. Then, the surprising question came, "If I keep you in your present position," asked the senior executive, "can I trust you in the future?" The younger worker not missing this chance brightened up and said, "Yes sir...you surely can!"

The senior executive continued, "I'm not going to press charges, and you can continue with your present responsibilities, but let me explain why..."

"About twenty years ago, someone like yourself, made the exact mistake you made. He came into this same office, and he too spoke to the senior executive. It was the first time in the history of the firm that something like that had happened. That young man succumbed to temptation. Would you like to know what happened to that young man? He now occupies this office. What you have done, I did. The mercy you are receiving, I received."

This senior executive could have easily fired his employee, but he remembered a time that he too was given a second chance. Often, we desire for those around us to have mercy on our actions. Yet, we choose to judge others much more harshly.

I am certain there have been times in our lives where mercy was extended to each of us...especially God's mercy and forgiveness. While the Christmas season is full of family and love, for some, it is darkened by unforgiveness and instead DREADED family get-togethers.

I challenge you today to always be the one to make things right...even if you were the one wronged. Because even if you were not wrong in this particular situation, there have been times where you were at fault and received the forgiveness God freely extended to you. Therefore, do as today's verse encourages --- freely give as you have received. The Bible even extends a special blessing to the peacemakers!

Dear Lord, Always give me the words to say to bring healing in all of my relationships. I desire for You to move mightily in my family.

I thank You, my Jesus, for dying for me. I believe that You are Lord and that God raised You from the grave so that I can have eternal life.