The Other Side Of The Door

 I recently heard, perhaps, the most powerful sermon on forgiveness ever. It truly was a powerful message that I dare say, touched nearly everyone within earshot. During the course of the message, the pastor shared of a situation in which a pastor was passed over for a position in ministry. Thus, the individual was offended and the actions that followed to express his frustration were apparent over the years.

Yet, ultimately, the power to forgive falls with the one offended, regardless of where the offender is real or perceived to be in the wrong for his or her actions. Otherwise, the cycle is simply perpetuated and correspondingly, harder to break as time continues.

It's amazing as well, how unforgiveness carries over into other realms of life and becomes a blockage. As explained through the analogy of a door, it keeps one from going out, but also keeps others from coming in. So our refusal to open the  door is a permission slip to reject whatever may await us on the other side.

Which is fine, unless it's the presence and blessing of God that we are ultimately blocking.

Whether from behind the pulpit or in the pew, I think we can all agree that's the last thing we would want to refuse into our life as a follower of Jesus Christ.

Thus, will you pray this #associatePastorTuesday? Pray for those who are struggling with letting go of an offense, whether real or perceived. May there be an opening in the door of their heart and mind to extend grace and forgiveness. Pray for grudges and bitterness to be laid at the cross. Pray for healing in the lives of those where unforgiveness and bitterness have become strongholds. May such situations and circumstances not hinder the work of the ministry or the advancement of the Gospel. May God work the miraculous as He sees fit, as people work through the process and release of being offended... that it would not get the better of our spirits, nor our faith.

For as we open the door to extend the character of Christ
May the blessing of God return through the same door.
That in all things, God may receive glory
And draw each of us closer to His heart and presence.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

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