Sunday, April 27, 2008
No Root
"He saves, forgives and heals--takes back what the devil steals" That's one of my favorite lines from the lyrics of a song by Hillsongs Austrailia. Last night, I placed a scripture with a photo I had taken some time ago. I wan't exactly sure when I would use it. Today, that became more evident.
This morning, I listened as a speaker taught about forgiveness, reconciliation and restoration. It would be difficult to ponder these three without introducing the thought of what is brought about by their lack. What happens when there is no forgiveness, reconciliation or restoration? Although there are many such ills birthed through their absence, one stands out to me. Bitterness.
Key passages to consider about this subject were mentioned, including Ephesians 4:31, which encourages us to "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger..." I had been looking at Hebrews 8:15 just yesterday: "See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God, that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and many be defiled."
Is it possible for someone to see a "root of bitterness" in our lives, causing trouble? I believe so. Is it possible for us to recognize such a root springing up in our own hearts? With God's help, I believe this is also true.
Permeating several minutes of the time I spent considering these things this morning, was a certain scenario. I could see Jesus holding out his hand to someone who needed forgiveness. This person had reached out their own hand to grasp His hand. Next, the forgiven one, while still holding the hand of their Savior, turned around to face behind them, extending their hand in an outward motion---to accept the hand of any who needed forgiveness from them.
Jesus continually reaches out to us in love as He promises to forgive the repentant. His offer is not based on our acceptance; but on His love. We may choose to reject it. Others may choose to reject our outstretched hand as well. Still, it is in the offering of forgiveness that we are to be set free from the bondage of anger and bitterness.
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