Restorative Justice | Tuesday | 9/8

Tell the Truth

Matthew 18:15

If your brother or sister sins against you, go and correct them when you are alone together. If they listen to you, then you’ve won over your brother or sister.

“If your brother or sister sins against you, go and point out their fault.”

Jesus doesn't say, Ignore it.

He doesn't say, Pretend it didn't hurt.

He doesn't say, If you were more spiritual, this wouldn't bother you.

He says, “Go.”

Sometimes Christians confuse peace with the absence of conflict. We think loving someone means avoiding difficult conversations. So we bury wounds, suppress anger, and pretend everything is fine.

But reconciliation without truth isn't reconciliation. It's denial dressed up as peace.

Jesus invites us into something better. When something has been broken, we can name it. When someone has been harmed, that harm matters. When sin has occurred, love does not require pretending otherwise.

But notice how Jesus tells us to speak: “just between the two of you.”

The goal isn't humiliation. It isn't revenge. It isn't gathering people to our side.

We tell the truth because we hope something broken might be repaired.

Truth isn't the enemy of reconciliation.

Truth is often where reconciliation begins.

Reflect

Is there something you've been avoiding because telling the truth feels uncomfortable?

Pray

God, give me courage to speak truth with love. Keep me from using truth as a weapon, but also keep me from avoiding truth for the sake of superficial peace. Amen.