When “Sorry!” is Not Enough

“Reconciliation” is very much in the news at the moment, particularly with regard to Australia’s ‘Anglo’ and aboriginal peoples. This is a subject that Christians should be seriously thinking and speaking about.

Firstly, because it was often through “Christian missions” that past government policies of removing aboriginal children from their parents, was implemented. Though done with the ‘best intentions’ of wanting to provide a ‘better environment’ for the children, emotional needs of the children and parents, and differing cultural understanding of what a ‘better  environment’ is, were ignored. The wisdom required of missionaries in cross-cultural work is indeed that of Solomon.

Secondly, Christians have something to say about “Reconciliation” because this is the very basis of our standing with God. Reconciliation with Him is necessary because of our sinful nature. We have said “Sorry!” (repented), but that is not enough. For some sin (like theft), restitution can be paid. But some things can never be repaid, so compensation or penalty is required. In addition, forgiveness must be reciprocated. Praise God that He forgives us and paid the penalty (on our behalf) for our sin through the offering of Christ’s redemptive death, if we just claim it by faith as ours.

Lets pray for our national, state and church leaders as they work through these issues of reconciliation, forgiveness, restitution and compensation with our aboriginal brethren. Lets pray for our nation that all its peoples will develop a heart of reconciliation and forgiveness. Finally, pray for our missionaries in foreign cultures, that they will receive the wisdom of God in discerning and presenting the essence of the gospel message, unpolluted by their own cultural heritage and biases.