‘You have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, “You shall not murder”; and “whoever murders shall be liable to judgement.” But I say to you that if you are angry with a brother or sister, you will be liable to judgement; and if you insult a brother or sister, you will be liable to the council; and if you say, “You fool”, you will be liable to the hell of fire. So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift. Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are on the way to court with him, or your accuser may hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you will be thrown into prison. Truly I tell you, you will never get out until you have paid the last penny. Matthew 5:21-26
It seems our nation has become a harsh and hostile place, especially for those marginalized folks and their allies. We often think we're righteous when we condemn and return harshness and hostility. Some might even believe violence in return for violence is appropriate. It is hard not to be angry and want retribution. Jesus comes to us in our anger and our hurt and calls us to be reconciled. Not to reconcile after we crush them or abuse them, but immediately. Oh, this is so hard for so many of us in times like these. Yet our freedom is found in reconciliation, our joy is found when we refuse to carry the burden of hate and judgement.
Loving God, you call us to be reconciled
planting your generous spirit in our hearts
surrounding us with elders to teach us
blessing us with our needs in this time.
Many of us are angry, hurting and sad
wanting to lash out at everyone nearby
ready with fists and sharp, stinging words
yet we are called to be those who reconcile.
Give us the humility and strength we need
to love and forgive despite the dangers
to always seek reconciliation and healing
so the suffering might end here among us. Amen.
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