Day Two Matthew 5:23-24
23 “So if you are presenting a sacrifice at the altar in the Temple and you suddenly remember that someone has something against you, 24 leave your sacrifice there at the altar. Go and be reconciled to that person. Then come and offer your sacrifice to God.” – Matthew 5:23-24 (NLT)
Learn From the Word
Continuing with His teaching on anger, Jesus says it’s actually more important to be reconciled to a fellow human being than to perform a religious duty. Before Jesus walked on earth, God spoke similar words to the Israelites in Hosea 6:6 when He said to them, “I want you to show love, not offer sacrifices. I want you to know me more than I want burnt offerings” (emphasis added). Even in the days of the Old Testament sacrificial system, God’s desire for His people was for them to know Him and to show love.
Put It Into Practice
Is there anyone you have wronged that you need to go and be reconciled to? Romans 12:18 instructs, “Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.” While not all relationships are capable of being restored, Jesus is clear that we should make every possible effort to bring about reconciliation as long as it depends on us. If God has brought anyone to mind, reach out to them today before performing your next religious duty.
For Families with Kids at Home
Jesus came not only to make things right between us and God, but also to make things right between one another! Have your kids think back to yesterday’s conversation about anger. Is there anyone they need to reconcile with? If so and if age appropriate, encourage them to do that today.