Forgiveness is immediate, Reconciliation takes time

I love studying God's Word and listening to what others are learning. (Hebrews 10:25) It proves over and over how active and living and applicable the Bible is today for every occasion.  (Acts 4:12)  Most recently, I listened to a lesson on Acts 9:23-31.  The discussion was about Barnabas.  In the journey of repentance and reconciliation it is important to have at least one Barnabas in your life.  Forgiveness is a given.  It is mandated by God.  However, reconciliation is not required.  Reconciliation it dependent on repentance and a process.  Repentance takes time, it means changing behavior and thought patterns.  That takes time and practice.  When serious offences have happened and trust is deeply broken, it takes time for healing to occur and for there to be enough evidence to prove a heart change has occurred.  A Barnabas can be helpful.  God demonstrates through Barnabas how important the role of (a) Barnabas is in the lives of believers.  God understands wounded hearts and mistrust.  So with some scholarly insight and history lessons, we learn 3 years have passed since Jesus revealed himself to Saul on the road to Damascus.  Saul now finds himself back in Jerusalem where he first persecuted the Christians without mercy.  They didn't trust him.  (verse 26-they were afraid of Saul)  So Barnabas spoke on his behalf.  Barnabas was able to "testify" on Saul's behalf.  Which led to these three key points on how to be a Barnabas:
1. Willing to listen to a person's story.  2.  Willing to check out their story (verify facts).  3.  Willing to trust God.
Being a Barnabas isn't easy.  It means giving time.  Time to listen.  Time to research.  Time to observe and see the changes in a life as a result of repentance.  It, also, means being willing to step up and speak on behalf of a person when it might be unpopular.  Done well, though, so much could possibly happen for building up the kingdom of God.  I can't help but remember the scripture that encourages being quick to listen and slow to speak.  In His time God reveals.
Just a huge encouragement to me these past weeks.  As I walk through a difficult season, and I know the things God whispers to my heart.  I know the Scriptures He leads me to.  He took all the pieces and wrapped the up and confirmed I was hearing Him teach my heart, through this person's words.
Forgiveness is required and needs to be immediate.  Reconciliation is a process and takes time.