Thomas Lima csc –
Readings: Ezek 18: 21-28; Mt 5:20-26
Today’s first reading reminds us that through righteousness we are saved and cleansed from our sins. Forgiveness is a gift from God. It is easy to get angry and let hurtful words fly or commit hurtful actions.
God, who loves us unconditionally can easily forgive us. We, though made in God’s image, have a hard time forgiving one another. It is really God’s grace in us that enables us to forgive. Our hurts remind us that we are fragile human beings. We need God’s love in our hearts that creates an openness to see and say, ‘I am wrong.’ We need God’s love to open us to forgiving and being forgiven.
Today’s gospel is a fine example of how Jesus gives a deeper meaning to the law. The true spirit of the law demands avoidance not only of awful crimes like murder but also of anger and any kind of hateful action or attitude towards our neighbour.
Jesus drives the point home by insisting that reconciliation with one’s brother or sister takes precedence over divine worship itself. The reason is that a divided, angry heart cannot be a worshipping heart in love with a loving God. Worship is not for God, but for us: it makes us more human, more whole. Going through the motions of worship with anger in our hearts is a waste of time.
We always have to ask ourselves if, in the light of Christ’s principle, I am worthy of his favour. If not, let us seek his forgiveness.