Pride and shame.  You’d never know they’re sisters. They appear so different. Pride puffs out her chest. Shame hangs her head. Pride boasts.  Shame hides. Pride seeks to be seen.  Shame seeks to be avoided.

But don’t be fooled, the emotions have the same impact. They keep you from your Father. Pride says, “You’re too good for him. Shame says, “You’re too bad for him.” Pride drives you away, shame keeps you away. If pride is what goes before a fall, then shame is what keeps you from getting up after one. God the sinless and selfless Father, loves us in our pride and shame.

The Greek word for reconcile means to render something otherwise.  Reconciliation touches the shoulder of the wayward and woos him homeward.

From He Chose the Nails