Dialogue

Matthew 5:23-25 “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift. 25 Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still with him on the way, or he may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison.”
 
TO dialogue is a good thing to do. Sadly, though, too few of us do it. Dialogue happens when two or more people talk constructively about a subject to share opinions, to give facts or to decide how to respond to a circumstance. But too often we are inclined to enter a conversation eager to make our point. We quickly want another to know our thoughts: But with a “Let me tell you.” attitude, we can quickly transform a dialogue into a speech or an argument!
    Jesus, though, says, “Dialogue.” And his reasons are obvious. For example, when you dialogue with someone you’ve wronged, you are first admitting, “I made a mistake.” The purpose of dialogue is to move from the “me” perspective into a “we” view of a relationship. With that mindset, you will often reach a point of apology and forgiveness if needed. Jesus even teaches that when you dialogue with someone who wants to sue you, you will come to a satisfactory conclusion for both people. Talking constructively, calmly with someone who has angered or disappointed you opens your ears to the other’s point-of-view. Differences diminish. Even new friendships develop when two people have listened to each other.
   Pent-up emotions, harsh talk and unruly behavior do not belong in the Kingdom of God. Every situation that causes division can be reshaped to unite through appropriate dialogue. The resolution can be an agreement to separate or work together. Either way will lead to peace.
   The next time you disagree with someone or become angry, put those unholy emotions aside. Perhaps you could speak a short prayer, “Lord, help me stop and think about this before I speak. Help me understand the other person’s point of view.”
   Release the conflict. Reconcile with others. Avoid unforgiveness. Listen to their words with open ears and a humble heart. Know you aren’t always right even if you want to be. Live right with Jesus. Live right with others. 
 
James 3:13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.