Posts Tagged ‘reconciliation’

The witness that Christians can most powerfully offer the world is not that of a perfect people, but of a people always fully engaged in the reconciliation experience.

Shivering, he cried for forgiveness. “I come to you as a prodigal son. Please forgive me.” The two women whose materials had been stolen emerged from the congregation and gave him a big hug.

In story after story, we have heard faith journeys from people who are not looking for headlines but who are working in humble places. They live a vibrant witness of faith.

Those who look back at me from beyond human made barriers of separation are very much like someone I know well. They are very much like me.

UMC.org has put together a special website (www.umc.org/911) to provide stories, worship resources, prayers, videos, and other useful links related to the upcoming 10th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks on the U.S.

Any reporter thinking Bethke would allow herself the satisfaction of revenge would be disappointed. Her family’s loss because of 9/11 has not changed a lifelong commitment to peace…From the beginning, she has chosen reconciliation over retribution.

“On this, the occasion of the tenth anniversary of the tragedy of September 11, 2001,” Bishop Goodpaster said, “I call upon United Methodists and all people of faith to a renewed commitment to ministry of reconciliation

Charlie Roberts said in a suicide note that he hated God after the death of his first child. Faced with similar suffering…his mother has taken the opposite path. Her son cursed God; she trusts in prayer. Her son acted out his rage; she reaches out for reconciliation.

Today, unfortunately, we’re quick to leave and go find another church or let our theology divide us. That’s what’s different today about reconciliation. We’re trying to reconcile the church today; in the first century, the church was reconciling the world.

On the 10th anniversary of 9/11, Link TV is devoted an entire day of special programming showcasing stories of forgiveness, growth and transformation including Beyond Belief and In Our Son’s Name.