Relationships

A relationship is a close connection between two people or groups of people, in the way they behave towards each other.

It encompasses the difference and diversity of experience, perspective, culture, gender, age, politics, ideology and so on. 

Sometimes differences in how we live, and experience life can become wedges and barriers that separate us, cause tension or even anger.  Anger fills our being when we encounter something that offends us, hurts us, causes pain, or is a source of injustice – towards us or in the world around us.  When such anger runs deep and lies unattended without a positive way through, it can lead to hatred and violence.  That violence is sometimes directed inward and often outward towards others. Such violence destroys relationship and manifests between Nations, Communities, Groups (including Churches), and our world.

Jesus speaks of the rules and laws of his people: Jesus raises the bar on rules that are taken literally, to go deeper and understand that the law means to enable safe relationship.  He speaks of being reconciled to those with whom we are in conflict, and to do what we can to channel anger, hurt, pain into a positive way forward ,and working through our differences, or working against injustice to bring peace and relationship.  Relationship is the currency of God’s way.  Relationships grounded in Love and Justice, are the way Jesus points us.

John 15:12: My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.

 Luke 6:31: Do to others as you would have them do to you.

Corinthians 16:14: Do everything in love.

Proverbs 17:17: A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

Mutual respect, consideration and understanding for one another (especially when it comes to one's feelings) is paramount in all Relationships.