Sunday February 12th, 2017 6th Sunday after Epiphany Matthew 5:21-37
"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;... (verses 23-24)
Today begins a series of readings, both from the Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament, that speak to the topic of living in right relationship with each other. Jesus, as always, invites us to look beyond the words of the law and into the heart of the matter. He invites us to tap into our inner wisdom. Do we really wish to hurt someone?
Yet, the reality is that we will hurt others, whether intentionally or not, and others will hurt us. So how might we reconcile a fractured relationship? Jesus’ words can touch our hearts in a most meaningful way.
Most of us can remember a time when the gift of reconciliation was offered to us when we least expected it. Perhaps it came in a kind word, an unexpected hug or even a heartfelt letter. Doors that were once shut are now open again, and a burden is lifted from our shoulders. Something in us has been healed.
Healing God, grant me the grace of an open heart, ready to forgive and to be forgiven. Amen. — MKW
Contributed by The Grace of Reconciliation
Today begins a series of readings, both from the Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament, that speak to the topic of living in right relationship with each other. Jesus, as always, invites us to look beyond the words of the law and into the heart of the matter. He invites us to tap into our inner wisdom. Do we really wish to hurt someone?
Yet, the reality is that we will hurt others, whether intentionally or not, and others will hurt us. So how might we reconcile a fractured relationship? Jesus' words can touch our hearts in a most meaningful way.
Most of us can remember a time when the gift of reconciliation was offered to us when we least expected it. Perhaps it came in a kind word, an unexpected hug or even a heartfelt letter. Doors that were once shut are now open again, and a burden is lifted from our shoulders. Something in us has been healed.
