Reconciliation: Breaking Down Barriers and Building Bridges

In a world drowning in divisive rhetoric, where families experience tension and alienation even within their own homes, the message of reconciliation shines as a beacon of hope. The power of the Gospel to bring people together, despite their differences, is a transformative force that can reshape our relationships and our world.

The concept of alienation is deeply rooted in human history. In ancient times, there were clear distinctions between those who had access to God and those who did not. The temple structure itself was a physical representation of this separation, with barriers and walls keeping certain groups at a distance from God's presence. For Gentiles, the uncircumcised, there was a stark reality of being "without hope and without God in the world" (Ephesians 2:12).

This alienation wasn't just a historical issue. Even today, we can be guilty of creating barriers that keep people from experiencing God's love. Whether it's through cultural expectations, socioeconomic status, or personal prejudices, we sometimes set up obstacles that hinder others from approaching God. The challenge for us is to recognize and dismantle these barriers, understanding that the Gospel is for everyone, regardless of their background or current circumstances.

The good news is that Christ's sacrifice on the cross has fundamentally changed this paradigm of separation. As Ephesians 2:13 declares, "But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ." This profound statement encapsulates the heart of reconciliation – that through Jesus, the dividing walls of hostility have been torn down.

The story of Peter and Cornelius in Acts 10 beautifully illustrates this new reality. Peter, a devout Jew, receives a vision from God that challenges his preconceptions about what is clean and unclean. This vision wasn't just about dietary laws; it was about people. God was showing Peter that His love and acceptance extend to all, even those previously considered outsiders.

This truth has radical implications for how we engage with others. If Christ's blood covers our differences and brings us near to God, how can we justify keeping others at arm's length? The call to reconciliation challenges us to look beyond surface-level differences and see the inherent worth in every individual as someone for whom Christ died.

Reconciliation isn't just about tolerating differences; it's about actively working to bring people together in Christ. It's a recognition that true unity is found not in our own efforts or similarities, but in the transformative power of the Gospel. As we embrace this truth, we become part of building a new community – the church – where former strangers and foreigners become fellow citizens and members of God's household.

This new community is built on the foundation of Christ as the cornerstone. Just as a cornerstone joins two walls together in a building, Jesus bridges the gaps that divide us. In Him, we find the strength and stability to build relationships that transcend our natural inclinations towards division.

The vision of this reconciled community extends far beyond our present circumstances. Revelation 21 paints a picture of a future where God's dwelling place is among His people – a diverse multitude from every nation, tribe, and tongue. This heavenly reality should inspire our earthly efforts at reconciliation, reminding us that our differences are temporary in light of eternity.

Perhaps one of the most challenging aspects of reconciliation is extending grace to those we deem unworthy. The story of Henry Gerecke, a Lutheran minister who served as chaplain to Nazi war criminals during the Nuremberg trials, confronts us with this difficult truth. How do we share the Gospel with those who have committed unspeakable acts? How do we reconcile the magnitude of God's grace with our human desire for justice?

These questions force us to grapple with the depths of our own need for grace. The reality is that we are all undeserving of God's love and forgiveness. As the hymn reminds us, "Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe; sin had left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow." When we truly grasp the extent of God's grace towards us, it becomes easier – though still challenging – to extend that same grace to others.

The call to reconciliation is not an easy one. It requires us to confront our own prejudices, to step out of our comfort zones, and to see others through God's eyes. It challenges us to be agents of peace in a world bent on division. But it is a call that lies at the very heart of the Gospel message.

As we reflect on this powerful truth, let's consider:

1. Who are the people in our lives that we've been avoiding or keeping at a distance?
2. What barriers have we consciously or unconsciously erected that hinder others from experiencing God's love?
3. How can we actively work towards reconciliation in our families, workplaces, and communities?
4. In what ways can we extend grace to those we deem unworthy, remembering the grace we've received?

The journey of reconciliation is ongoing, requiring patience, love, and a constant reliance on God's strength. But as we embrace this calling, we participate in God's grand plan of reconciling all things to Himself. May we be bold in breaking down barriers, building bridges, and showing the world the transformative power of Christ's love.