(“Thoughts I Want
To Leave Behind” is a collection of thoughts and impressions I want to leave
behind as I begin to make my final pastoral transition.)
Their Own Story
It is too easy to
want to tell the story of another person’s life. Resist this urge especially when the story
you are telling is about the life of someone who has hurt or wounded you.
Our story telling
of another person’s life can devolve into defending our part in a broken
relationship. These stories can become a
defense for our actions and not share the full scope of what took place because
the other person is not present to share from their perspective.
When these
opportunities to craft a biased narrative come, resist them. Instead, craft words filled with hope and
blessing for the other person and as you share be willing to admit you may have
contributed to the breakdown of the relationship. This restrained and honest response will
create trust in your hearers and trust in the hearts of those with whom you
have a broken relationship. Give this
process enough time and God will be able to use your words of honor to build a
bridge that will someday span the pain of the past and extend an invitation to
a future of restoration.
This article has really helped me – thank you. Blessings.