I came across this letter in my quiet time this morning and it made me think about how many churches need to write a letter but more importantly how many times as christians we need to write a letter to those around us (family, and other christians) and those visitors that we missed. Check out the letter below and then if you felt lead to write a letter to someone please comment and just say that and then follow through. What an impact for Christ we could have if we exposed that we are not perfect ;o) !
I’m Sorry
Milan Ford
I’ve been wanting to write to you for some time now.
Seems like every time I would try, I never could find the right words to say.
We pass each other every Sunday. Sometimes even during the middle of the week.
But for some reason, I just don’t feel like we’re as close as we once were.
I’m sure there are a number of reasons for that. We both probably share some of the blame.
But I felt like it was my time to apologize for a few things that may have driven us apart.
I’m Sorry.
For that time one of my ushers told you that seat was reserved for our “special guests.”
I’m Sorry.
For those times I said our evening services would end at 9pm, but ended at 10:30pm.
(I realize how difficult that can be with children that still have to get up early for school.)
I’m Sorry.
For that time you called one of my leaders for prayer and never received a call back.
I’m Sorry.
For sometimes being way too critical on how you choose to dress for service.
I’m Sorry.
For those times it seems like I’m always asking for some kind of financial assistance.
(I realize how you and others give so faithfully. I just wish there were more like you.)
I’m Sorry.
For the times I may have appeared more interested in gaining new members, than serving and being a disciple to those members (like you) who were already coming.
For that time your friend (the one you invited to come visit on last Sunday) got screamed at by one of my parking lot leaders for going the wrong way. She really didn’t know.
I’m Sorry.
For those times you had questions about some of my messages and were afraid to ask.
And I’m (Really) Sorry….
For the times you’ve felt I place too much emphasis on the pastor. I admit sometimes I can get a bit carried away.
I can’t imagine how many other things I may have done to make you feel the way you do. I never meant to disappoint you and want you to know how important you are to me.
If there is anything the last few years have taught me, is that I desperately need to make some changes. I realize I’ve picked up a pretty bad rap recently. So much so I thought about giving up.
But just when I was about to throw in the towel, I read in Ephesians 5:25 that Christ loves me, and even gave Himself up for me (despite my many shortcomings).
I figured if Christ could love me, with all that I’ve done in the past, there still may be hope for the two of us. Although I can’t promise everything is going to be perfect, I know that together, we still can do some great and awesome things. I hope you will consider forgiving me and working alongside me.
We have so much to do.
Yours always,
The Church
I pray that you will follow through if you felt God impress upon you to write a letter to someone. You never know what God will do when your obedient and take a step of faith into the unknown!
God Bless ~ Tyler
