Imagine you have a friend, or family member, with whom you have a problem. Something that you, perhaps, have been the cause of. You're invited to a gathering, and find yourself sitting next to the very one you have wronged. It's awkward. It feels like a huge barrier exists between you, even if it was a relatively small wrong. It's like the elephant in the room. But then you find a chance to talk. You share an honest apology for any pain you've caused. You let them know that you value them so much in your life, and want to make things right. Maybe even share a hug. Suddenly the barriers dissolve. The air is cleared. You can laugh like you used to together. You can freely enjoy each other's company again.
It's a bit like that with me and God - only the awkwardness is never on his side! I spend my day thinking I've lived pretty well. Then I come to sit with him for a while, and just being with him makes me realise how often I've come up short. He doesn't say anything about it, I just know. It's just that bit of awkwardness that stands between us. And I need to open up to him and let him know I've been stupid again, and that I value our relationship so much that I'm really sorry I've messed it up. And he smiles, and hugs me, and let's me know it's behind us. I know I'll always be forgiven. It's just nice to make it right. Then we can go on to enjoy just being together, freely.
Image by Cathy Mu
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