“I’m certain it wasn’t malicious…” I assured my husband while we cleaned up the kitchen after dinner.

I was recounting a meeting I’d had earlier in the day in which I’d left the conversation feeling small and discouraged.

“I know they meant no harm…” I assured the LORD as I brushed my teeth and got ready for bed. “I know they only want what’s best for all…”

“This is nothing to lose sleep over…” I assured my wide-awake self in the dead of night as the entire episode looped on repeat through my thoughts. “They were only doing what they thought to be right…”

Only I wasn’t sure. I felt myself growing bitter and cold. I felt a darkening – a hardening –  a shutting down.

Our Father, lead me not into temptation.
Help me pass the test.
Help me to forgive.

I picked my daughter up from high-school and it was obvious she’d been crying.

Between the tears, she haltingly recounted a scenario from earlier in the day that had left her feeling small and discouraged and understandably angry.

I could taste her bitterness and feel her holy heat. And at the same time, I could see her darkening and closing. I understood all too well the desire to grow cold – to do unto another as they’ve done to you.

I let her cry. It was no time for spiritual lessons.

Our Father, lead her not into temptation.
Help her pass the test.
Help her to forgive.

How many times have I caused another to feel small and discouraged?

Father, forgive me.

When have my own words or actions caused someone to lie awake while a cold and discouraging contempt stalked their rest?

Father, forgive me.

With whom have I not been more careful? Who has left my presence unsure that I have their best interest at heart?

Father, forgive me.

Shalom to you and yours today, friends, especially if you are feeling fragile and tested.

For your debts have been fully forgiven – you’ve been delivered from evil – and you’ve been adopted into the generous and abundant household of God.

Now go and do likewise.

Kim