When a fish is caught in a net, we could cut it in half, and it would die. Or we could gently untangle it so it can be set free. We are called to carry each other’s burdens. That’s the beauty of church. When you are caught in sin, whether it is greed, or pride, or bitterness, or sexual sin, or stealing, we shouldn’t condemn, we should gently restore.
It breaks my heart when people don’t come to church because they’re caught in sin, and think the roof will cave in! It should be the place where they can be restored, gently. A burdened shared, is a burden halved. This is how we fulfill the Law of Christ: loving God, loving people. Galatians 6:2 sums this up.
Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
What a beautiful picture of the New Testament Christian. As a pastor, nothing shocks me anymore. I think I’ve come across people committing almost every sin known to man, and I’ve seen many people restored back to a righteous life, led by the Spirit.
The key word is ‘gently’ That’s how Jesus changed everything. He restored people gently. Like the woman caught in adultery, the Law said to stone her; the Pharisees called for her death. But Jesus said, “He who is without Sin, cast the first stone. One by one they all dropped their stones and Jesus said. ‘Where are your accusers?’ Then He says, ‘Go and sin no more’. He restored her gently. Not to go and keep doing it and keep asking forgiveness. He firmly, but gently said, ‘Go and sin no more.’
Father, give me your heart for those caught in sin. Thank you for those who’ve restored me gently when I’ve sinned. I pray to have your heart of grace and restoration. Amen.