The Task of Reconciliation
Monday, December 25th — Christmas Day:
What is our task in this world as children of God and brothers and sisters of Jesus? Our task is reconciliation. Wherever we go we see divisions among people – in families, communities, cities, countries, and continents. All these divisions are tragic reflections of our separation from God. The truth that all people belong together as members of one family under God is seldom visible. Our sacred task is to reveal that truth in the reality of everyday life.
Why is that our task? Because God sent Christ to reconcile us with God and to give us the task of reconciling people with one another. As people reconcile with God through Christ we have been given the ministry of reconciliation” (see: 2 Corinthians 5:18). So whatever we do the main question is, Does it lead to reconciliation among people?
Henri Nouwen
For further reflection…
“Therefore if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that another has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to the other, and then come and present your offering.” – Matthew 5: 23-24 (NIV)