Daily Word Of God
Matthew 5:20-24
Jesus said to his disciples: ‘For I tell you, if your uprightness does not surpass that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never get into the kingdom of Heaven.
‘You have heard how it was said to our ancestors, ‘You shall 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 a brother will answer for it before the court; anyone who calls a brother “Fool” will answer for it before the Sanhedrin; and anyone who calls him “Traitor” 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.’
Today's Pointers on God's Word
As you read the passage what words, phases or meanings caught your attention?
- Forgiveness must be interiorized. This involves a deep change of heart towards the person who have hurt us; not just mere superficial words.
- In many ways it is easier to “forgive” others than to ask for forgiveness from someone. This is more difficult because it requires humility to acknowledge and admit our wrongdoings.
- In any conflict both sides are at fault; no one is totally blameless. Thus, we must first seek forgiveness from God. Then we ask Him for the healing graces we need to resolve the conflict.