Follow UP
When we go to the doctor and we are treated for a condition, the doctor often schedules us for a follow-up appointment. This is an opportunity for the doctor to determine if there has been some kind of change in the condition. It can be an improvement or it could mean that the condition isn’t improving and requires a change in treatment. Either way, following up with a patient leaves room to see what has changed in a period of time.
What is the follow-up of grace? Do you simply just show grace and keep it moving? In some instances it is that simple. In others, there is an opportunity beyond placing our emotions and predispositions in the back seat. Yahweh’s grace for each of us is abundant and overflowing, but it doesn’t end there. It is followed by repentance and a new beginning and often times a bit more grace.
Just this week, conflict seemed to keep following me around. I had to get beyond myself in order to see the assignment Yahweh sent me. HE showed me there was a place beyond showing grace. In my situation, the communication was via text. So, although the conflict was sorted, I knew that I had to follow up with the person for two important reasons. The first one was so that I could remind them of the positive things we learned, although at first glance it seemed like conflict and chaos. The second thing that I wanted them to know is that the conversation was so important to me, that I continued to think and consider the points we each brought, without dwelling on the conflict portion of our interaction. There is growth in following up.
What would have happened if I didn’t follow up?
How do I know that the conflict was really sorted in each of our hearts without interacting with that thing again?
Jesus is always following up with each of us in his constant pursuit of us. And if we are paying attention to the details, we will find tools for our next place, in the follow-up assignment.
(1 Corinthians 13:4-6) Love is patient, love is kind, it is not envious. Love does not brag, it is not puffed up. It is not rude, it is not self-serving, it is not easily angered or resentful. It is not glad about injustice, but rejoices in the truth.