Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Shubkono: Service of Reconciliation
Mathew 5:21-27
Vs 24b - “First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift."
Today as we meditate on the second day of our fifty-day Lenten period, we focus on the theme of Shubkono which means to reconcile.  In today’s passage we meditate on, we see Jesus teaching about anger.  He mentions the law of Moses in reference to Exodus 20:13 that says you should not murder.  Jesus goes on to say that we should not be angry enough to even have the idea of murder.  In doing so, we would be committing murder in our hearts.  The phrase that Jesus used in v.22 “but I tell you…” should not be misunderstood of as Jesus changing the laws, but rather, He was giving a deeper meaning behind the law.  Although it is obvious that murder is a terrible sin, we must also acknowledge that anger is a great sin as it violates God’s command to love.
In looking at vv. 23-24, we must recognize who God is, although it is simple to acknowledge, that God is Love, our life should recognize God’s love as an everyday lifestyle.  We should introspect ourselves if there are any broken relationships that we have.  Broken relationships can hinder our relationship with God as He is a God who forgives and reunites through His reconciliation.  This passage reminds us that if we claim to love God but have hatred and hostility towards others, we are just as hypocritical like the teachers of the law in Jesus’ time.  The attitude that we have with one another reflects how are relationship with God is.  Let this Lenten period guide us to be disciplined in our emotions, submit it all to God and love as God loves us.
 
PRAYER
Almighty Father, we are weak and fragile, especially in our feelings and emotions.  Guide us to abide in You and unconditionally love as You love us.  In Christ’s name we pray.  Amen.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Are we holding any grudges in our lives?  How can I focus this Lenten period to forgive and be reconciled with those whom I am uncomfortable in loving?

Rev. Jess Mathew George
Youth Chaplain, North East Region
Christian Education Forum, Diocese of NAE of the Mar Thoma Church

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