We learned and were trained in a process of reconciliation. We practiced this process over a much debated topic of the conflict in the Middle East, most specifically between Israel and Palestine. There are 8 principles which we worked through:- Pluralism
- Inclusion
- Peacemaking
- Social Justice
- Forgiveness
- Healing Collective Wounds
- Sovereignty
- Atonement
The reality is that this is probably the most complex problem/relationship/scenario/struggle in the history of man. Yet, it was so encouraging to be in a group that simply was not giving up. I had several moments where I just said, "This is not worth it," but our group continued to work through the long process.
What I learned or was reminded:
- Reconciliation is a long, exhausting process that takes perseverance and extreme commitment through difficult times. No matter what the scenario, it takes work.
- Listen first. Listen second. Consider talking third. A lesson I have been trying to work hard on recently.
- Say you're sorry. Ask for forgiveness, Forgive freely. We don't take blame easily. I need to humble myself easily and say sorry more often.
- I may well be (I would argue I am) part of groups of people that have inflicted on harm on other groups of people. Whether it be the faith group I am part of, the gender, the ethnicity, the race, or another, I have intentionally or unintentionally contributed to someone else's harm (whether legitimate or not). For this, I must be willing to apologize and work toward reconciliation.
- My takeaway: True reconciliation must be rooted in love which is found purely in Jesus Christ.
