A Jesus girl who rises up and unexpectedly gives grace when she surely could have done otherwise reveals the power and the mystery of Christ at work — in her life and in the world.

8Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. 9Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.

Oh, let it be so noted about my life! That my words, my love for those who love me — and even more, my love for those who don't love me—reveal that, yes, I have been with Jesus.

Another act of forgiveness means even more healing and clarity. Another intentional brushstroke of beauty slowly replacing the darkness with hues of healing light.

When people see us, do they see the compassion of their Creator? If so, I guarantee when the enemy sees us he shakes with fear. He isn't scared of the judgmental soul shellacked with a fake sense of perfection. But the compassionate soul who has hurt deeply and come out loving? Yes, she is one of the superstars of God's grand story, and the one you want near you in the battles of life.

Or, "Most of the time when you open your mouth, make known the gospel. But if you're feeling really, really hurt, rally other people around your cause and make this other person look as bad as you can.

Understand that no time showing up and bringing compassion to another human is ever a waste of time. Rather, it's our chance to bring context, purpose, and meaning to all of life. Quiet moments of compassion are epic moments of battle.

had been massively damaged. There was repentance. There was forgiveness. There was an acceptance that, just because something wasn't right for a long time, it doesn't mean it can't be made right over time. There was some healing we both did individually. And then there was the decision that it was time to heal together. There was a beautiful vow renewal.

I don't remember a single classroom lesson she taught, but I very clearly remember the way she made me feel.

Just because we extend forgiveness doesn't mean we keep that person in our close-knit circle.

Confession breaks the cycle of chaos inside of me. Forgiveness breaks the cycle of chaos between us.

Grace given when it feels least deserved is the only antidote for bitter rot. I