“If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18 AMP)
REFLECTION
Cultivating meaningful connections within a caring community is a crucial aspect of living a meaningful life in preparation for eternity. And while meaningful moments are part of the mix, so is the risk of misunderstanding, which can cause all manner of offence, complication and discord, the very opposite of the loving unity we are called to prayerfully cultivate. But, praise God, navigating misunderstanding can be a learning curve that leads to deeper connection and understanding.
So let’s stay alert, aware and ready for it by staying close to the perfectly wise and loving One, ever mindful of His Word and regularly pray with / for those in our spheres of influence. And if / when we find ourselves or someone in a mess of misunderstanding, let’s be quick to pray for compassion and wisdom, seek to understand, forgive as we’ve been forgiven and prayerfully pursue peace, aware that we all need Jesus and the grace that only He can give, whether we are flying high on the mountaintop of victorious accomplishment or limping low through a deep valley of sorrow. There is so much we don’t know, but as we seek spiritual intimacy with our all-knowing, merciful Maker, we can trust Him to work all things together for our good and His glory in His marvellous, mysterious way.
PRAYER POEM
Loving Lord ~ nothing is too hard for You and You alone know all the reasons why we do what we do. Come what may, help me stay close to You every day. Grant me grace to face reality with courage and kindness, deeply aware of how much You care.
