The CV Chronicles: An Open Letter to My Sister

And once again I find myself overwhelmed with thoughts and unable to sleep. I need to be sleeping, my day starts at 6:30 AM tomorrow, but recording my thoughts seems so much more important right now.

Where to begin? I really want to tell you about how incredible this last week was. I want to tell you about all the wonderful ways the Lord has worked in my life.

But honestly, all I can think about right now is my younger sister. Our relationship is very broken right now and this brings much grief to my heart. As painful as it is for me to admit, the current state of our relationship is almost entirely my fault. When I was an unbeliever, I never treated her right. I called her horrid names, held her to an impossible standard and criticized her every move. I refused to forgive the slightest offense. It was so wicked. I shudder when I remember my former ways. 

However, by the sweet, sweet grace of God when Christ entered my heart, all the animosity and bitterness I used to feel was washed away. It has been my aim these past three years to rebuild what I destroyed. Unfortunately, I've had very little success. Currently, my sister won't even talk to me.

I have a picture of her I keep in my wallet, I pulled it out and put it up on my encouragement wall so I would remember to pray for her. I've been writing her letters while I've been here at camp. My mom confirmed that she got them, but I don't know if she reads them. Please pray for our relationship.

If I could just get her to listen to me, this is what I would tell her:

Margaret,
      There are few things I regret more in my life than the way I treated you when we were growing up. If it were possible, I would take back every cruel, ungracious thing I've ever said to you. I am so ashamed of the way I treated you when we were children. I sinned against you and against the Lord. I used to be so angry at you constantly, but now that I know Jesus I am not that way any more. Jesus changed my heart Margaret and I pray that one day He will change yours as well and you will find it possible to forgive me. Jesus loves you and so do I. It is my dearest wish that one day we will be reconciled as not only biological sisters, but sisters in the Lord as well.
     I can tell you from experience Margaret that living a life a part from Christ is no life at all. Carrying around a heart full of anger will ultimately destroy you.

I am here anytime you need me.

Love, 

Sarah Jo