Offering Relief in Relationships

Introduction

As this world becomes increasingly secular, Christians will be challenged to initiate and build discipling relationships by showing grace. Extending grace in our relationships helps us to communicate the love of Christ to those who need it the most. The antithesis to this is the attitude and example of the older brother in the story of the prodigal son. He could not understand how his father could be so excited with the return of such a rebellious child. Instead of rejoicing in the fact that his brother had come to himself and found his way back home he was bitter at the love and warm reception he received after his prodigal lifestyle. This has become a common occurence in our churches and it hinders our relationship with those who need to experience the love of Christ the most.

It is important to understand this woman’s situation as an opportunity to initiate and improve a relationship with a sister in need. Her scandal provided Jesus with an opportunity to lead her to salvation. When we encounter a brother or s sister in this situation, and by that I mean that they are suffering under the weight of guilt and condemnation it is our duty to extend to them the grace that we have experienced. In doing so we have an opportunity to change the character and the quality of their lives from henceforward. This is an opportunity to establish and to build a healthy relationship.

This lesson is important because without grace our relationship with Jesus would not be. We love him because he first loved us. His method of handling wayward and rebellious individuals is so much different from out own methods. This is why he should be our model. This pericope outlines the radical nature of his willingness to extend grace.