Reconciliation Makes Gift Giving Just

Acknowledging God

Follow in My Ways

Keep My Statutes and Ordinances

Matthew 5:21-26 The Message (MSG)

Murder

21-22 “You’re familiar with the command to the ancients, ‘Do not murder.’ I’m telling you that anyone who is so much as angry with a brother or sister is guilty of murder. Carelessly call a brother ‘idiot!’ and you just might find yourself hauled into court. Thoughtlessly yell ‘stupid!’ at a sister, and you are on the brink of hellfire. The simple moral fact is that words kill.
23-24 “This is how I want you to conduct yourself in these matters. If you enter your place of worship and, about to make an offering, you suddenly remember a grudge a friend has against you, abandon your offering, leave immediately, go to this friend and make things right. Then and only then, come back and work things out with God.
25-26 “Or say you’re out on the street and an old enemy accosts you. Don’t lose a minute. Make the first move; make things right with him. After all, if you leave the first move to him, knowing his track record, you’re likely to end up in court, maybe even jail. If that happens, you won’t get out without a stiff fine.

For Reflection

The foundation of Mosaic Law is still in force. The Christ event did not erase the Jewish law, it extended it and tempered with compassion and grace. The new testament is about obedience not just to the letter of the law, but also to the intention of the law.  The purpose of God's law is to make our communities livable. Christ has shown us how to live in a good relationship with God and with each other.  We indeed suffer from the errors of our human condition but sharing the Grace of God eases the burdens of our existence.

Pray

Study the scriptures. Worship in fellowship with others. Seek the meaning of your lives through prayer and the practice of a compassionate life.

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