By David Hegg

We’ve all heard that “to err is human, to forgive divine.” If you’re wondering what it comes down to, it’s this: We all mess up. No matter how good we think we are, there will always be times when our goodness gives way to sarcasm, insults, and hurtful words and actions. As the song goes, we too often hurt the ones we love. Yet, we also know a forgiving heart, while requiring humility and love, can be the first step to saving or restoring a relationship.

The problem isn’t that we hurt others, but that in so doing, we create walls and distance between ourselves and those with whom we were meant to share life. Conflict creates separation, and if not dealt with, that separation can become a canyon that grows deeper and wider over time.

As a pastor, I’ve had far too much experience trying to undo the havoc people waged on relationships with family, friends and neighbors through extended emotional warfare. Minor disagreements and disappointments can grow into monstrous mountains of seething resentment that keep the parties involved from enjoying that precious human experience: friendship, camaraderie, and most importantly, family.

At Christmas, these fractures take on an oversized life of........

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