STEPS by John Ortbergਨਮੂਨਾ

THE REPARATION: MADE AMENDS

During Step Nine, we move from willingness to action: making amends. To make amends is to seek to repair what we’ve broken. It’s not just about saying we’re sorry; it’s about undoing harm where possible, setting things right, and showing genuine care for those we’ve hurt.

In Jesus’ Parable of the Prodigal Son, the younger son returns home offering to work as a servant. Some people see this as an attempt to earn forgiveness, but perhaps it’s something deeper: an effort to make amends. He acknowledges the damage he caused and expresses his desire to help restore what he squandered. While his father’s grace doesn’t require repayment, the son’s gesture reveals a heart ready to take responsibility.

Making amends isn’t always simple or quick. It often requires courage, humility, and thoughtfulness. Sometimes, it’s best to approach this step in categories:

• Now: Begin with people who are close to you or in situations where the stakes are lower.
• Later: For people or situations where more time, energy, or clarity is needed.
• Maybe I Will and Maybe I Won’t: For complex situations where the best approach is unclear or might risk further harm.
• Never: In cases where making direct amends would cause more pain or isn’t possible.

Amends can also take many forms:

• Resolution: Addressing an unresolved problem, like restoring estranged relationships.
• Restitution: Paying back what we owe or repairing tangible damage.
• Restoration: Rebuilding trust and bringing relationships back to health.

Sometimes, when making direct amends simply isn’t possible, we pursue indirect amends (helping others in similar situations) or living amends (devoting ourselves to ongoing healing and redemption).

This work isn’t just about fixing isolated moments–this is an ongoing process. When done right, this will take a lifetime. It’s about learning to live in a way that minimizes harm and maximizes love. Each time we make amends, we take a step toward becoming more like the person God created us to be.

TODAY'S INVITATION:

Think of one specific person you’ve hurt. Reflect on how they’ve been impacted by your actions. What would it look like to make amends? If making direct amends isn’t possible, consider how you could offer indirect or living amends instead. Ask God for wisdom, courage, and a heart open to healing.