None of us exist in a bubble; rather, interaction and relationships with other people are part of our existence. And because all of us are imperfect people, those interactions and relationships can become messy, difficult, and even downright ugly.

So what do we do when a relationship becomes broken? Christ said it very clearly: we are to do what we can to mend any fractures by going to that person and reconciling. I don’t know about you, but that can seem daunting. It requires so much of us . . . humility, vulnerability, accountability, and perhaps even more.

But as difficult as it may seem, we need to remember that Jesus didn’t suggest it as a possible practice — He commanded that we do it.

I’ve struggled with the issue of reconciliation with a particular individual in my life. I’ve overlooked this person’s narcissistic behavior and habitual stirring-up of trouble by means of lying, creating conflict, taking offense at slights never made, etc. I’ve apologized when accused of doing things that not only did I not do, but others in the situation have told this person I did not do (he/she made them up). For over 10 years, I initiated reconciliation even when the damage was clearly instigated by him/her.

Nothing worked.

As I read this morning’s devotion (Capturing Whimsy by Bob Goff), I reflected on the solution I arrived at after years of prayer, Bible study, and several conversations with two trusted pastors. I’m saddened that I have had to distance myself from this person even when necessity deems we be together at some point.

Saddened, but at peace.

What about you? Are there any broken relationships in your life? Any reconciliation that you need to initiate? Any boundaries you have had to erect or need to impose?