Is there more to it for you?
Usually confession is where it ends. And when it does, it’s time to move forward.
Yet sometimes when we experience God’s grace His spirit stirs us to move in it; we may yearn to take another step. We may desire to do what we can to make a situation right, to say we’re sorry in person, to make amends or to admit a truth.
During my freshman year in college I spoke to a girl in a mean and hurtful way. Almost 20 years had passed, but the memory still hurt my heart. I wanted to apologize, but I didn’t know how. I hadn’t known her well at the time and didn’t think I’d ever see her again.
One day on Facebook I noticed we had a friend in common. While it felt awkward and even a little embarrassing, I messaged our mutual friend and asked if some day she’d relay a long-overdue apology for me. I didn’t go into detail, but I trusted the heartfelt apology would be understood. As soon as I hit send on the message, I thought, Ok God, I don’t know what will happen or how long this will take, but there’s no fear in perfect love. Our mutual friend messaged me back in 15 minutes that she relayed the message, and the situation had been long forgotten. Fifteen minutes! Wow, after all those years it was done in 15 minutes. Praise God for that peace.
Some situations work out like that and others don’t.
Attempting to make amends will look different for each of us in each situation. Sometimes people aren’t reachable, situations cannot be returned to or forgiveness isn’t extended. Moving on and trusting in God’s mercy, grace and forgiveness is key. If you have a desire to reach out and say you’re sorry, don’t hold back, no matter how much time has passed or how pointless it may seem. If it’s in your heart and you have an opportunity, take it.
And if you ever feel tempted to give up, read this.
