Restoring RelationshipsSample

Day 6: Encounter

Devotional

At the heart of restorative justice is a powerful and biblical principle: encounter. Wrongdoing always harms relationships—not just breaking a law, but breaking trust, peace, and community. God, in His Word, repeatedly calls us to face conflict not by avoiding or retaliating, but through personal engagement. Whether it’s a direct conversation, a mediated meeting, or a shared letter, a restorative encounter gives space for truth-telling, empathy, confession, and transformation. It allows the offender to acknowledge harm and the victim to be heard. Jesus calls us to be merciful and to be peacemakers—this happens when we courageously lean into difficult encounters with love, humility, and a desire for reconciliation.

Reflection Question:
Is there someone you need to personally engage in a spirit of restoration and peace? What step could you take this week to move toward that encounter?

Prayer:
Father, help me not to avoid conflict or hold grudges. Give me courage and compassion to lovingly confront and restore broken relationships. Use these encounters to bring healing, truth, and peace. Amen.