Sometimes it's easier to forgive than to rebuke our family, friends, and neighbors. We often are tempted to let certain sins slide because we don't want to get into a confrontation with our loved ones or with strangers. However, our inaction doesn't do the other person any good. By saying and doing nothing, we let the person keep sinning and create a deeper and deeper gulf between them and God. It is not an easy thing to do, but we should be willing to compassionately tell others our concerns about their actions. At least then they will know what we see and that we don't like it. We might suffer because we say what needs to be said, but this is exactly what Jesus did in his life and one of the ways in which we are called to follow him. In addition, to being willing to rebuke others, we should also be willing to forgive them for the wrongs they commit against us. By doing this, they shall see that we love them and be more open to hearing our concerns.
Are we willing to rebuke others when they are living sinful lives? Are we willing to forgive everyone who has trespassed against us? Who are the people in our lives who need to be rebuked or forgiven?
O Lord, give us the conviction to rebuke those who are sinning and the compassion to forgive those who repent of their sins.
Amen.
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