Against You, You only, have I sinned and done what is evil in Your sight. Psalm 51:4
Confronted by Nathan, David repents of his adultery with Bathsheba. He cries out admitting his sin against God - and God only. But what about Bathsheba and her husband Uriah?
This bothers me. I understand that in perspective, the sin against God is so much greater than an offense to another person. And after all, He set the standard. It was His law that was broken. It is His right to judge and pass sentence. But there was also an offense to other people. Doesn’t that count?
Of course it does. Maybe it is precisely because Uriah and Bathsheba matter that the sin is so onerous. David didn’t just break God’s Law, he hurt God’s beloved creation. God made Uriah and Bathsheba, knit them in the womb the same way He had David. David had no right to misuse and injure what belonged to God. They were precious to Him.
That helps me as I sort out repentance and forgiveness. God’s heart is broken at my sin and I confess and seek forgiveness from Him. But part of true repentance, is that I also need to seek reconciliation with those I’ve injured. Making things right (as much as my part allows – only God brings real healing) honors God’s image bearer as well as God Himself. They are not separate issues, but gloriously intertwined.
Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift. Matthew 5:23-24
