First make peace to your brother

Gospel

Matthew 5:20-26

Anyone who is angry with his brother will answer for it

Jesus said to his disciples: ‘If your virtue goes no deeper than that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never get into the kingdom of heaven.

‘You have learnt how it was said to our ancestors: You must not kill; and if anyone does kill he must answer for it before the court. But I say this to you: anyone who is angry with his brother will answer for it before the court; if a man calls his brother “Fool” he will answer for it before the Sanhedrin; and if a man calls him “Renegade” he will answer for it in hell fire. So then, if you are bringing your offering to the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar, go and be reconciled with your brother first, and then come back and present your offering. Come to terms with your opponent in good time while you are still on the way to the court with him, or he may hand you over to the judge and the judge to the officer, and you will be thrown into prison. I tell you solemnly, you will not get out till you have paid the last penny.’

Reflection

Jesus reveals that true righteousness is a matter of the heart, not mere outward compliance. Anger and contempt—like murder—break communion with God and neighbor. Reconciliation is more urgent than ritual: our worship is hollow if we ignore broken relationships. Jesus calls us to seek peace proactively, healing wounds before they harden into division, reminding us that our eternity is tied to how we treat one another here and now.

Question

Is there someone I harbor anger or resentment toward, and what step can I take to seek peace?

Prayer

Lord, soften my heart and heal my anger. Help me seek reconciliation before all else, that my worship may be true and my relationships reflect your mercy. Amen.

Comments

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