Family Matters

"Love covers a multitude of sin"

As the world mourns the lost of one of its favorite sons, it is also a time for the body of Christ to look introspectively. When we set aside the issues that we allow the "accuser of the brethren" uses to divide us, we are able to see love in operation. Many of us have borne witness to churches in turmoil. Whether it is due to pastoral mis-steps or division in the laity, one thing is certain. Far too often we allow the issues that divide us to take charge and run its course. We forget that "for the grace of God there go I." It is easy to look at all of the perceived wrong and declare it with our "righteous indignation." However, when it comes to issues that touch us or our family, we so rightfully apply "love covers a multitude of sins."

That wayward hardheaded son that winds up locked up. That daughter that winds up pregnant. That husband or wife caught in a compromising situation. When it is in our camp, we seek to privily handle these matters. And seek the church's prayers to help get us through. But when it is someone else, we stand at the ready to declare their hypocrisy. We stand ready to judge the indiscretion and the state of their salvation. Far too often, we stand ready to condemn the "offending" brother or sister.

But the churches role is to act in love. Our primary mission is recocniliation. Even as Christ was "reconciling the world unto himself." We see the ministry of reconciliation to the "sinner" so clearly, and yet we miss it when it comes to the "saints." We must begin to focus on restoring those that are in the fold. How many "former" church members do we see return the street? How many "former" preachers do we see? We can easily see our mission to the sick and shut-in, the prisoners, and the home stricken. We so loudly rejoice as we see a "sinner" turn his/her life over to the Lord. But how loudly due we weep and mourn when a brother or a sister leaves the church?

Our focus, our life's work must be reconciliation. Yes we must have discipline within in the church. However, we must remain vigilant in recognizing that every action that we take is in love. "Love covers a multitude of sins." One brother's perspective. Peace unto you. The Net Elder