Relationship Restoring

As imperfect people we have harmed others that we have crossed paths with. We have mistreated family, friends, acquaintances, and strangers. No one has been protected from our harm. Some harm was an intentional act, while others were not. In any case, we have done wrong to other people. As an addict our life has been damaging, not only to ourselves, but to others. During the course of our life we have done harm. We have cheated and manipulated others for our benefit. As all of the harm we’ve done builts, we become angry, bitter people. Now we have knelt before God and received His forgiveness. Now, it’s our turn.

As we look at Step 8 it’s important to remember that the 12-Steps can be a guide for everyday living. They’re not just for addicts. They are a wise way to live life. Step 8 says, “Made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all.” For some this list will be long, but we will all have a list. We will never be done with our list because we’ll add to it as our journey continues. Matthew 5:23-24 says, "If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift." Jesus commanded us to make amends. If at any time we remember that we have harmed someone, we need to become willing to make amends.

Making amends with someone we have harmed, for one reason or another, may not be possible. But we must become willing to do so. It is what we need to do. We cannot deny the harm we have done. But we can be willing to make it right. So we make our list and become willing to make amends. The great news is that we are not alone. This is something we need help with. The Holy Spirit guides us in this step. When we don’t remember, God does and will remind us at the right time. The Holy Spirit will also provide us with the strength and courage needed to become willing to make amends. Sometimes saying sorry is tough, but necessary.

Notice that the verse mentioned above says “while offering your gift.” This indicates that during prayer we remember the harm we have done to someone. So, Step-8 begins with prayer. We make our list so we don’t forget. Then, through the leading of the Holy Spirit we become willing. Being willing to make amends is honoring God. If we keep in mind that God has made amends with us, through the death of Jesus, we will be driven to make amends with others. As followers of Jesus our relationship with God has been restored. Now it’s our turn. So, let us get our pen and paper, and prayerfully start making our list and be willing to make amends. Tomorrow may not come.