Families are not exempt from conflict; some of the most deep-seated conflicts exist in families. At times, these conflicts cause damage that seems irreparable. Max Lucado said, “Conflict is inevitable but combat is optional.”
If that is so, how do we resolve conflict without combat? In combat, enemies face off and fight to kill. Jesus told a parable about family conflict. The characters were a man and his two sons. Every person is an individual and has different personalities and viewpoints, and this family was no exception. One son was hard working while the other was a party boy. One was concerned about the family, and the other cared only about himself. The party boy wanted his inheritance to party while his brother continued to serve faithfully. Soon, he had no money and no friends. Broke and hungry, he made a decision. “So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him.” (Luke 15:20 NLT).
There were a variety of responses available to his father, but the father chose to respond with love and compassion. He rejected combat because combat has casualties. This father was wise enough to understand that family combat has no victors, only victims. The father’s compassion led him to open his arms and welcome his son. They reconciled, and combat was averted.
Thought for Today: Friend, choose reconciliation over combat.
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Have a blessed day and walk in faith and victory.
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