The risen Lord spoke these words to his followers shortly after his resurrection from the dead. As a disciple of Christ today, I believe these words to be not only a moral, but also a spiritual imperative, for the community of those who walk in The Way. Too often, we fail to acknowledge the authority with which we are entrusted. Instead, we take prisoners and hold captive a hurting heart. The taste of revenge is as addictive as sugar. May God forgive us for not forgiving one another.

Again I approach you,
brother in Christ’s spilled blood,
with peace offering, confession
of imperfection on tongue
which falters.

      Praying for grace,
I am petrified – a trembling rock

Again you turn, shun me,
sister disfellowshipped,
with silence and condemnation.
No absolution to come.
No penance,

      Save that I keep
my distance, be gone, be gone, be gone.

Yes, Lord of all has heard
confession that I make
and knows my heart of contrition.
He knows, too, your refusal
to forgive.

      And so I’m caught
between Rock of Ages, your hard heart.

No, it is not enough
that I lay down and rest,
full with hope of God’s redemption.
Release me. Let God restore
flow of life.

      Break chain of hate
you perpetuate, withholding grace.