Dear Reconcilers,

Guest writer Sheila Graham shares an example of how the Holy Spirit works to bring unity within communities.

More Than Forgiveness

My daughter and son-in-law were hosts in their home to a group session offered by their church on forgiveness. Though I don’t attend the same church, I sat in for a few times.

What a diverse group it was. A racial mix, older and younger, couples and singles. Two of the women looked as if they could have come from a homeless shelter, while a few others were wearing clothes more expensive than what many of us could afford. (They toned down to more casual wear after that first meeting.)

Though the leader was using video clips along with workbooks, working on a two-hour schedule, the sessions became longer as these people became more comfortable with one another. It wasn’t long before they began sharing some very personal information about themselves.

The sharing didn’t stop after the meetings were over. As I was also on a text link with them, I saw the relationships deepen as they reached out to each other during the week. Some needed prayers for healing, one needed a new job, others were worried about their adult children.

It occurred to me this was the way of the early church. People from various economic and cultural backgrounds overlooking their differences to come together to worship God and to meet each other’s needs.

Though the group session has long been over, this group still shares their joys and their trials. When the Holy Spirit is involved, differences disappear and reconciliation becomes possible.

Beginning next month, our monthly letters will be sent by e-mail. This will help keep the cost down. If you would like to continue receiving the letters each month please help us out as soon as possible by sending us your e-mail. You can e-mail it to Curtis.may@gci.org or use your small envelope in your monthly letter and write on a piece of paper clearly your e-mail address and name.  We are looking forward to starting this in April so please get your information to us as quick as possible.

Sheila Graham has a master’s of arts in religion and a master’s of arts in women’s studies in religion. Among her published writings is The Proverbs 31 Woman and Other Biblical Women, coauthored with Michael Morrison, available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, which also addresses the question of what roles women can play in the church today.