A young pastor, appointed to...
Illustration
A young pastor, appointed to an old, inactive church, soon discovered why the membership was rapidly declining. Each Sunday there were two small, but distinct congregations, one on the left and one on the right; each led by an adult Sunday school teacher. The teachers were not on speaking terms because of a minor disagreement which had occurred many years before; and each had gradually influenced others into their unforgiving and bitter ranks.
Eventually, the pastor brought the two together and encouraged them to confront the destructive nature of their hostility. "You are not only making a mockery of your own faith," the pastor said, "but your hateful actions and unforgiveness toward each other are also attempting to destroy the loving spirit of Christ which lives in this church and community."
"He that cannot forgive others, breaks the bridge over which he himself must pass if he would reach heaven; for every one has need to be forgiven." (George Herbert)
-- Byrd
Eventually, the pastor brought the two together and encouraged them to confront the destructive nature of their hostility. "You are not only making a mockery of your own faith," the pastor said, "but your hateful actions and unforgiveness toward each other are also attempting to destroy the loving spirit of Christ which lives in this church and community."
"He that cannot forgive others, breaks the bridge over which he himself must pass if he would reach heaven; for every one has need to be forgiven." (George Herbert)
-- Byrd
