Choosing at the Crossroads - Part 1

Everyone standing at a crossroads has made mistakes and chosen less than the honorable, upright way to live. Standing at a crossroads, where decisions and choices are critical, may seem overwhelming. A helicopter pilot in Vietnam was unable to rescue a soldier from a fire fight. He misjudged the situation and consequently the soldier died.

"Not a day goes by that I do not think about the soldier I let die," mourned  the pilot. Compounding his torment was his refusal to share this guilt and grief with his family. Secret-keeping results in secret suffering of self-incrimination. Crossroads experiences can be disturbing, but they need not be devastating. All humans make errors in judgment.

Jesus instructs us to make things right. Do whatever it takes to make amends for poor judgment, mistakes, and deliberate acts of anger. If this is impossible, own up to your weakness and confess it to Christ; seek forgiveness and comfort as you grieve for yourself. Tell others you're suffering, and ask God for strength and grace to endure.

Choosing Compassion and Forgiveness - Part 2

The parable of the prodigal son is interesting because it raises issues that  are familiar to everyone. It's impossible to perfectly chart a course for one's life without making a few wrong turns or occasionally stumbling into a stinking hog pen. Unwise choices and decisions often produce painful consequences.

The older son in this parable sees his father as excessively lenient on his younger brother, whom he identifies as a slacker. This older, responsible son is angry because his brother needs to face the consequences of his foolish behavior and choices rather than being coddled and indulged. Some have characterized the older brother as jealous and narcissistic in addition to being greedy.

It's possible to get so stuck in negative emotions that feelings of love and compassion are beyond reach, but this is a lonely road to travel. There is, however, deliverance and help for anyone who would respond to God's love. He unhesitatingly gave Jesus, his most prized possession, for our redemption.