As I was studying the Old Testament law about making restitution for theft and property loss, I began to wonder how it applied to me. Immediately the words Bill's pump came to mind. Months before, I had borrowed my neighbor's pump to inflate a bicycle tire. It broke while I was using it. But I'm ashamed to admit that I returned it without saying anything to him.

It was obvious that God wanted me to confess my wrong to Bill and buy him a new pump. But my rationalizations were swift: It was old, and it would have broken anyway. It would be embarrassing to reveal my failure and show what a weak Christian I am.

My excuses sounded hollow. I knew the Lord wanted me to make it right. So I bought a pump and went over to Bill's house, but he was out of town. At church the next morning, I started to drop my offering in the plate and remembered, "First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift" (Mt. 5:24). The money went back in my pocket.

When Bill returned, I told him what I'd done, apologized, and gave him the new pump. He graciously understood. It cost $7.23 plus pride--a small price to restore a relationship with a neighbor and a clear conscience with God.  — David C. McCasland