God Calls Shenanigans

Last Thursday was supposed to be the season where families got together; celebrated their special closeness.
How’d you do?
Know it wasn’t an accident you were placed with your family. God’s plan put you there. With that in mind, let me ask again. How’d you do?
Did you hang on to your old mantra:
“I don’t want to be hurt anymore.”  “You don’t know what they did to me.”  “We have nothing in common; it’s best we just keep our distance and live our lives apart.”
Sorry, I think God calls shenanigans.
It isn’t too late. There’s still time to apologize. There’s still time to button your pants, shake off that tryptophan stupor, and reach out—reach back—and make things right.
If you have hurt someone, apologize. If you have been hurt, forgive. It wasn’t suggested by God, it was what he told us to do:
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.  ” John 13: 34 (NIV)
“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First, go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.” Matt. 5:23-24 (NIV)
Do you see it? It’s all about forgiveness. Jesus died for the person you’re upset with or the person who’s upset with you. They have value. You have value. That value isn’t in you; it’s in your Heavenly Father. How would the next Thanksgiving feast be if we all sat at the same table … you, me, your estranged family members, and our Lord?
Yikes.
You still have time. Don’t let this season of thanksgiving pass you by. It could still be the best Thanksgiving yet.