RELATING to ONE ANOTHER in CHRIST (6)
Forgive one another. Not always an easy task to admit a mistake, or to let go a wrong that someone has done to us. Our human pride is often at stake. God, why do I have to be the one to forgive when someone has hurt me? On our own, forgiveness does not make a lot of sense sometimes. Relating to one another in Christ sometimes means that we turn our cares and concerns, hurts and discontent over to Jesus for healing and new life that comes from being willing to “let go and let God”. Give forgiveness to others and forgiveness will be given to you. “Give and it will be given to you.” Luke 6:38Freely participate in the Body of Christ according to our gifts and talents. God has given everyone gifts and talents to share. In the past, many churches have operated out of a strong sense of duty and doing what needs to be done, whether it was a gift of yours, or not. Being overly committed was looked upon as a good and generous way to serve God.There has been a shift in thinking that we may need to catch up with. If we are overly committed to something, that lessens the opportunities others have to also be involved. Team work and a broad base of support is a very good thing. Depth in the congregation, with many people sharing a gift or two, grows the congregation and doesn’t over burden anyone.
Here is the challenge: Identify your gifts and what you want to participate in most. Give it a try. Feel free to express your God given talents with others. Do not feel guilty about not doing too much. You are just leaving room for others to step forward and share their gifts, too. “Freely you have received, freely give.” Matthew 10:8