‘While we were still sinners, Christ died for us’

(Romans 5:8b)

Recently Sue and I reflected on a former colleague from a Christian organisation with whom we had invested significant effort to build a positive working relationship. As her supervisor, I ensured she had autonomy and support, intervening only when necessary. And when I’ve had to, sometimes it was help her out of sticky situation. Sue, though not her supervisor, also made efforts to make her feel valued.

For instance, on her birthdays, Sue would go out of her way to make her favourite dessert. There’d be odd jobs Sue would help her out with on more than one occasion. Her response to us indicated that all was well.

Despite our support and her outward appreciation, we were deeply disappointed to discover she had been stabbing us in the back. This revelation was both shocking and disheartening, challenging our perceptions of her and the relationship we’ve worked so hard to build.

Just who on earth is this person we thought we knew? She would have to be the most two-faced individual I’ve ever known. How could she think the worst of us when we have been nothing but kind and loving to her?

And then Sue remarked something to the effect that our experience mirrors, in some ways, how we can treat God. It was a ‘I could hear a pin drop moment’ for me. I cannot tell you the numerous occasions when I have thought the worst about God, notwithstanding his love, faithfulness and mercies to me; the times when I’ve been unfaithful to Him in my Christian witness; the times when I worshipped Him with my lips and betrayed Him with my choices.

Christmas serves as a reminder that, rather than treating us as our sins deserve (Ps 103:10), God demonstrates his love for us by offering reconciliation through Christ’s sacrifice (Romans 5:6-8).

Remembering this has helped me find renewed strength to keep forgiving and respond graciously to this person. As we approach Christmas, I encourage you to consider whether there is someone you need to forgive or someone you need to keep your heart soft toward with the wisdom and grace of God. 

Following Jesus,

Mark