Non-reconciliation, Let me count the ways it cost thee

Dan Kassis, Internet Producer at LifeWay Sunday School sent an email with a special note for teaching the lesson, “When Family Bonds Shatter.” The following caution contained a suggestion for opening the lesson:

“Due to the sensitive nature of this lesson, refrain from offering a light-hearted or amusing icebreaker to begin your class session. Instead: Allow each learner to share one thing about their families - either spouses and children, or the families they grew up in - for which they are thankful to God.”

In step 4 of the lesson on Reconciliation, consider sharing selected elements of the article “The Many Costs of Conflict.” The author outlines the expense of non-reconciliation in four areas: Direct Cost—Fees of lawyers and other professionals; Productivity Cost—The opportunity cost of what those involved would otherwise be producing; Continuity Cost—Loss of ongoing relationships including the "community" they embody; and Emotional Cost—The pain of focusing on and being held hostage by our emotions.