PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Matthew 5:21-26
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.” (Matthew 5:24)
To offer your gift at the altar is an act of worship, to honour God with a gift.
Jesus is saying that God is not honoured by gifts when we don’t love his family.
The command against killing is the Father’s plea to love – not harm – his children.
Name-calling, arguing, fighting and hating are all the same kind of thing to God.
“Everyone who loves the father loves his child as well.” (1 John 5:1)
Loving God (worship) and loving people (fellowship) go hand in hand in God’s family.
Don’t just be nice to God, be nice to God’s children, for this makes God smile.
God shows us what reconciling love looks like; doing what it takes to make things better.
Jesus demonstrates what it takes for God to makes things better: he loves us to death.
All of the 10 Commandments are examples of ways to love, not harm, God and others.
Instead of words or acts of cruelty, instead of arguing and fighting, show love.
Love builds bridges, love apologizes, love is patient, love honours and serves.
When things fall part, do what you can to heal and help and restore harmony.
God doesn’t want acts of worship or rule following, God wants us to love!
PRAYER
Lord, you show me what love looks like, what loves does. More than just not killing, love what it takes to bless, help, heal and restore God’s family. Help me to love like this!
Harboring hate or ill will against someone else is not good. Jesus teaches: “First go and be reconciled” – I have to come clean. I know I have hurt some people in the past – and I regret that – it is like a scar – a reminder to make sure that I seek forgiveness – not only from God but also from the person I’ve wronged. Lord help me not hurt but to love even those who wrong me!
Jesus was the example of love – loving by His words and deeds. He brought healing. And I need to do the same – as far as it depends upon me to live at peace with all. The JOY principal helps in all of this – putting Jesus first, putting Others second and putting Yourself last. I need to be like Jesus unto others and this is a possibility when lead by His Spirit.
1 Holy Spirit, Truth divine,
dawn upon this soul of mine.
Voice of God, and inward Light,
wake my spirit, clear my sight.
2 Holy Spirit, Love divine,
glow within this heart of mine.
Kindle ev’ry high desire,
purify me with your fire.
3 Holy Spirit, Pow’r divine,
fill and nerve this will of mine.
Boldly may I always live,
bravely serve and gladly give.