(Photo by Cathy Wang)
“Would’ve, could’ve, should’ve.” We’ve all heard the phrase before. I feel that phrase mostly applies to relationships. Today I was thinking about some of the closer ones I have had over the years. I know, and understand it takes two to get it right, but the one thing I have regretted over and over is when my response to the other person was less than perfect.
That lack of responding in the right, or best way has caused a lot of hurt, pain, and disappointment in some of these relationships. The moment I realize I have wounded the other person is when regret starts to set in.
In some cases there has been a huge price to pay for not responding correctly. Being very open and honest it would be easier if the other person passed on, but when they don’t you are forced to deal with the reality they don’t want to speak, or see you again, ever! This is what can happen when one chooses not to forgive you. We shouldn’t let regrets weigh us down, but rather learn from them and hope the next time we respond better.
I am so glad Jesus forgives us when our responses are less than perfect. To me, “hell” would be the reality that God turned His back on me, and never wanted to see, or hear from me again, ever!
Copyright © 2016 Mark Brady, All rights reserved
We saw a pretty grand parade and rally this week in Chicago. A party to celebrate the Chicago Cubs winning a World Series after not winning it in 108 years. It was estimated 5,000,000 people were in attendance. Yet that pails to compare to the party and celebration that will take place for those who call Jesus, “Lord”. He hasn’t returned in over 2000 years. You talk about saying, “Maybe next year!”
“Hi. My name is Jesus Christ. I’m not running for your vote to be the King of Kings and Lord of Lords for I already am. I do give you promises though. I promise to never leave you nor forsake you. I promise to love you and accept you even if no one else does. I promise to stick closer to you than a brother, and unlike others, I never break my promises. Also if you bring to my house just 10% of what I have already given you I promise to open the windows of heaven and pour out blessings upon you.”
ently. Believe with them for God to deliver them, answer them, or heal them. Life is hard, but it is even harder by yourself.
I exited the train. Looking forward to being home. That is when I saw them. A young man, a young son, and a young dog all standing up against the fence holding onto it with their hands, and paws, waiting. Undoubtedly waiting for a young wife, a young mother, a young friend. The image was strong, and unfortunately one only a few others noticed, and commented by their, “Ahhh”s. What a welcoming site for the one being waited on to arrive. A young woman coming home to the love of a husband, the love of a child, and the love of a dog.
brady, mark a. 