I hadn't yet been able to meet with them. When I stepped up to preach that Sunday morning, I felt ungracious and carried a grudge. While the congregation held their sides in laughter, this couple sat stoically, second row, center section, arms folded, eyes staring through me. My unforgiveness was quickly growing into bitterness and resentment. My tendency not to forgive even insignificant offenses has forced me to think clearly about the steps I need to take to restore my relationship with God and the offender.
Most people tend to be sensitive where they've been battered numerous times.
The criticism leveled at me by the family angry about the youth ministry event was only one in a series of skirmishes with them. Their attitude, devoid of grace, was the final straw for me. I felt they had no interest in giving anyone the benefit of the doubt. Perhaps because some of my worst conflicts in ministry have involved people who I felt lacked grace and understanding, I tend to react with anger in such situations. I'm quickly set off by people who excel in fault-finding.