Get Them Talking is a series of resources to help families start conversations about issues of faith.
Scripture
“Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift at the altar and go. First make things right with your brother or sister and then come back and offer your gift.” Matthew 5:23-24, CEB
Reflection
Everyone makes mistakes. Everyone. No matter how young or old, we can hurt someone’s feelings, lose our temper, or be mean without meaning it. When that happens, it’s important to say, “I’m sorry.”
In this Bible story, Jesus tells us how important it is to “make things right” with someone we’ve hurt, even if it means interrupting our worship.
Get them talking
- How does it feel when someone says, "I'm sorry," to you?
- Share a time when you found it difficult to say you were sorry. Why was it difficult? How did you feel better afterwards?
- What does Jesus mean when he says we should “make things right” with people we have hurt? Why do you think that is so important to Jesus? Is that more saying you’re sorry?
- What is the difference between saying you’re sorry and meaning you’re sorry? Why does that matter?
Prayer
Dear God, give me courage to say, “I’m sorry,” when I hurt someone, and the wisdom not to do it again. Amen.
Activity
Before you attend worship (perhaps on Saturday night) ask each member of the family if there is someone with whom they need to make things right.
