MINISTRI NKE NKWUO (2)

The Ministry of Reconciliation remains undoubtedly one of the most Critical Callings of every Genuine Christian believer. As we have diligently studied in our devotional yesterday, the Art of Conflict Resolution can only become truly effective provided the Reconciler himself has intentionally cultivated a healthy relationship with both parties at war with each other. This would be the only way he could fully maximize his influence over them during the said Reconciliatory Process. As Authentic Disciples of the "Prince of Peace" (Isa. 9:6b), the onus therefore lies squarely upon us to become willing to transform into princes of Peace with a Divine Responsibility of placing a High Premium on Reconciliation at all times, being "instant in season, out of season..." (2 Tim. 4:2a).

In order for us to fully embrace the Ministry of Reconciliation, we as True Christian believers must strive to fully comprehend the Heart of the Master concerning this issue as stated in the Holy Scriptures: "Now it happened, as Jesus sat at the table in the house, that behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat down with Him and His Disciples. And when the Pharisees saw it, they said to His Disciples, “Why does your Teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” When Jesus heard that, He said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. But go and learn what this means: ‘I DESIRE MERCY AND NOT SACRIFICE.’ For I did not come to call the Righteous, but sinners, to Repentance" (Matt. 9:10-13 NKJV). Now let us at this juncture pause and carefully meditate on this Truth: It is completely impossible to effectively reach out to people you feel no genuine concern for. The Lord Jesus granted Access to sinners due to the fact He was obsessed with helping them make Peace with God the Father through His Own Ultimate Sacrifice.

As Genuine Christian believers that we claim to be, we have a Divine Duty to get off our high horses of insensitivity and "condescend to men of low estate..." (Rom. 12:16b). There are two types of principals everybody is required to have a Relationship with in this life: "GOD THE DIVINE PRINCIPAL HIMSELF AND MAN THE HUMAN PRINCIPAL" (Ps. 127:1). Considering this Truth as we journey deeper into the Mission Field, it is absolutely imperative for us to be mindful of the Sagacious Counsel of Apostle Paul during his defence before Governor Felix: "This being so, I myself always strive to have a conscience WITHOUT OFFENCE TOWARD GOD AND MEN" (Acts 24:16 NKJV). May the Lord God Almighty Himself grant us Understanding that we may be Effective in this Noble Ministry of Reconciliation.