Communication

Matthew 6:14-15 – If you forgive the failures of others, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you don't forgive others, your Father will not forgive your failures. (GWT)

When we first got Internet access and began using e-mail efficiently, my dad was visiting. I told him about how I could e-mail my brother in Texas, and my note would be there immediately. Dad was amazed at the technology that we all now take for granted.

In most cases, our e-mails do go quickly through cyberspace to arrive in the other person's inbox. Recently, though, I was sent an e-mail message by someone who lives a few miles from my home, but I never did receive it. Where did it go? Did something block it from arriving? If so, what was it?

We can communicate via e-mail with anyone around the world at any given time — day or night. Occasionally, messages don't arrive at the designated spot. We may never know what blocked the transmission of those e-mails. Maybe there is a way on the Internet to research what happened to them.

When we want to communicate with Jesus, all we have to do is talk to Him — any time of day or night. We want to be connected to our God. We want to feel the peace that everything is all right between us and Jesus.

Are there times when that message we send to Him is blocked? In today's Scripture passage, Jesus is saying that if we don't forgive others, the Father will not forgive us. I see that as a blockage in our communications with God.

Ephesians 4:32 – Instead, be kind and merciful, and forgive others, just as God forgave you because of Christ. (CEV)

To break that blockage, the Word tells us to forgive others. God forgave us and continually forgives us because of Christ having shed His blood on the cross for us.

Prayer: Father in heaven, we do want the communication open between us. When we are struggling, show us what is blocking the communication. If it is unforgiveness, please show us gently who we need to forgive. Help us to make amends if needed. We love You, Jesus. Amen.

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