Forgiveness is a dish best served NOW

23"Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.

The picture above was taken during the Tennessee/Ohio game I attended last weekend. Ohio had the ball, was only down a couple of points, and if they moved down the field they could have tied the game. Unfortunately (for Ohio) the quarterback threw an interception that led to a touchdown. Ohio then had a steep hill to climb, a much louder crowd to overcome, and they were likely feeling less confident about their ability to do anything about it.

The quarterback's fellow teammates had at least three options just after this play. (1) They could be angry at him and refuse to play their best. His guilt could be compounded by their anger and disappointment. (2) They could assume he will never improve and they have no hope, ultimately bringing about the same result as option one. (3) They could rally around him and let him know that they have made mistakes too and that they believe in him.

Great teams foster environments of forgiveness and encouragement, and I am pleased with our team. As we continue to create opportunities for social interaction, I hope you will find one that works for you. These opportunities to meet, worship, and serve with one another give us the chance to grow as individuals and as a team. The more you know about a person, the more likely you are to understand their highs and lows.