Does Faith mean Seeing Beyond the Ordinary? A Reflection on Matthew 13:54-58

Today’s Gospel taken from Matthew 13:54-58 presents us a poignant paradox: Jesus, the divine Son of God, is rejected by those who were supposed to know Him best. Following the powerful parables that characterized much of Matthew 13, Jesus returns to His hometown of Nazareth. The people are astonished at His wisdom and miraculous works. Their question is simple yet profound: "Where did this man get this wisdom and these miraculous powers?" (Matthew 13:54). The local community, having witnessed Jesus' upbringing as a carpenter's son, struggles to reconcile the ordinary with the extraordinary.

Their astonishment is an indication of the unexpected nature of God's revelation. Jesus, the familiar neighbor, has transformed into a figure of awe-inspiring authority. Yet, their amazement does not lead the people to faith. Instead, it is met with disbelief and offense. "Is not this the carpenter's son?" they scoff, reducing Jesus to His earthly origins (Matthew 13:55). This reaction is a sobering reminder of the human tendency to limit God to our preconceived notions, our perceptions, and even our experiences.

Jesus' response is both sorrowful and prophetic: "A prophet is not without honor except in his own country and in his own house" (Matthew 13:57). His words echo the experiences of countless prophets throughout history, rejected by those they came to save.  This was the experience of prophet Jeremiah in the first reading. Even some prophets and priests in the time of Jeremiah plotted to kill him for preaching the Word of God and calling them to conversion. The underlying reason for this rejection of Jesus and Jeremiah is unbelief. Because of their lack of faith, Jesus was unable to perform many miracles in Nazareth (Matthew 13:58).

This passage challenges our understanding of faith. It suggests that even proximity to the divine does not guarantee belief. Familiarity can become a barrier to spiritual perception. It invites us to examine our own hearts and ask if we are guilty of limiting God to our own expectations, ideas, experiences. Do we see Jesus primarily as a historical figure, a moral teacher, or a divine Savior? Our response to this question shapes our relationship with Him.

Moreover, the rejection of Jesus by His hometown highlights the pervasive nature of unbelief. If those who saw and heard Jesus struggled to believe, what hope is there for those of us who rely solely on Scripture and tradition? It is a sobering thought that even in the face of overwhelming evidence, faith remains a choice. This realization should propel us to deepen our own faith and to share the Gospel with compassion and understanding.

Ultimately, Matthew 13:54-58 is a call to humility and openness. It reminds us that the mystery of God transcends human comprehension. As we seek to understand the nature of faith, we must approach Scripture with reverence and a willingness to encounter the unexpected. Miracle is not a guarantee for the faith that perseveres; it rather invites us to go deeper to discover God beyond the visible and miraculous deeds.

In this journey, it is also vital to open our hearts and minds to the Holy Spirit who will lead us to the entire truth.  By doing so, we may begin to glimpse the extraordinary in the ordinary, just as the people of Nazareth did, and ultimately come to a deeper faith in the One who is both fully human and fully divine. 

May God help to grow stronger and deeper in faith, and be constantly renewed in our personal relationship with Jesus sot that we may know Him more, love Him and make Him known and loved🙏🙏🙏

Rayonner l'amour de Dieu : Notre Rôle en tant que Sel de la Terre et Lumière du Monde

Dans l'Évangile d'aujourd'hui (Matthieu 5:13-19), nous méditons sur l'un des enseignements de Jésus concernant notre identité en tant que chrétiens et notre rôle dans le monde. Jésus, après avoir prononcé le message des Béatitudes, une série de bénédictions pour les pauvres en esprit, les doux et les persécutés, tourne son attention vers la mise en pratique de cette vie bénie. Il utilise deux images puissantes et familières : le sel et la lumière.

Le sel conserve la nourriture ; il ajoute de la saveur. La lumière dissipe les ténèbres ; elle guide et révèle. Jésus déclare que ses disciples sont ces éléments essentiels dans un monde souvent dépourvu de vérité, de saveur et de direction. Nous devons être la saveur du royaume de Dieu, l'influence conservatrice dans une société en décomposition. Nous devons être l'illumination dans un monde enveloppé de ténèbres, montrant le chemin vers l'espoir et la vérité.

Jésus nous appelle à jouer un rôle actif dans le monde. Il nous lance un défi. Être sel et lumière, c'est être activement engagé dans la transformation du monde. Oui, Jésus a dit que «nous sommes dans le monde mais pas du monde» ; cependant, cela ne signifie pas que nous devons rester passifs, attendant la fin des temps. Au contraire, son enseignement nous invite à être plus engagés avec la culture, avec la société et non à nous en retirer. Cela signifie être une force de changement, pas simplement un observateur passif.

Dans le monde d'aujourd'hui, saturé de bruit et d'indifférence, d'égoïsme, de violence et de crimes en tout genre, l'Eglise est appelée à être un sanctuaire de paix, un signe d'espoir. Nous devons être le sel qui préserve les liens communautaires, la saveur qui enrichit la vie des autres. Nous devons être la lumière qui dissipe les ténèbres du désespoir, le guide qui pointe vers un but plus élevé.

Il ne s'agit pas de supériorité religieuse ou de justice propre. Il s'agit d'incarner l'amour du Christ dans chaque interaction. Il s'agit de vivre de manière à ce que nos vies soient un témoignage du pouvoir transformateur de la grâce de Dieu. Dans nos lieux de travail, nos quartiers, nos familles et nos amitiés, nous sommes appelés à être des agents de réconciliation, des porteurs de joie et des champions de la justice.

Comment vivons-nous cet appel ? Cela commence par cultiver une relation profonde avec le Christ. Par la prière, les Écritures et la communauté, nous sommes remplis de l'Esprit qui nous donne la force de servir. Cela implique de développer une conscience aiguë des besoins autour de nous, d'écouter avec empathie et de répondre avec compassion. Cela signifie utiliser nos dons et nos ressources pour édifier le corps du Christ et servir le monde. Nous devons reconnaître qu'être sel et lumière n'est pas toujours facile. Notre ennemi connaît nos faiblesses et tente souvent de les amplifier et de nous faire perdre espoir et direction.

Pour résister aux tentations qui nous empêchent d'être sel et lumière, nous devons cultiver dans nos cœurs et nos vies les vertus de sacrifice, de courage et de persévérance, en gardant à l'esprit que la récompense de Dieu est incommensurable. En incarnant fidèlement le caractère du Christ, non seulement nous influençons le monde qui nous entoure, mais nous vivons également une transformation profonde en nous-mêmes. Nous devenons pleinement les personnes que Dieu nous a créées pour être, et nous participons à l'œuvre rédemptrice de Dieu dans le monde.

Acceptons le défi. Soyons le sel qui assaisonne, la lumière qui brille. Vivons nos vies comme des expressions rayonnantes de l'amour et de la grâce de Dieu. Et nous pouvons le faire encore plus alors que nous commençons ce nouveau mois. 

Que Dieu vous bénisse tous !!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Radiating God’s Love: Our Role as Salt of the Earth and Light of the World.

In today’s Gospel, (Matthew 5:13-19) we meditate on one of Jesus’s teachings about who we are as Christians and our role in the world. Jesus, having just delivered the Beatitudes message, a series of blessings for the poor in spirit, the meek, and the persecuted, turns His attention to the practical outworking of this blessed life. He uses two potent images familiar to us: salt and light.

Salt preserves food; it adds flavor. Light dispels darkness; it guides and reveals. Jesus declares His followers to be these essential elements in a world often devoid of truth, taste and direction. We are to be the flavor of God's kingdom, the preserving influence in a decaying society. We are to be the illumination in a world shrouded in darkness, pointing the way to hope and truth.

Jesus is calling us to play an active role in the world. He is issuing a challenge to us. To be salt and light is to be actively engaged in the transformation of the world. Yes, Jesus said that “we are in the world but not of the world”; however, He does not mean by that that we should remain passive, waiting for end of the times. Rather,  his teaching invites us to be more  engaged with the culture, not retreating from it. It means being a force for change, not merely a passive observer.

In today's world, saturated with noise and indifference, selfishness, violence and crimes of all sorts, the church is called to be a sanctuary of peace, a sign of hope. We are to be the salt that preserves the bonds of community, the flavor that enriches the lives of others. We are to be the light that dispels the darkness of despair, the guidepost pointing to a higher purpose.

This is not about religious superiority or self-righteousness. It is about embodying the love of Christ in every interaction. It is about living in such a way that our lives are a testament to the transformative power of God's grace. In our workplaces, our neighborhoods, our families, and our friendships, we are called to be agents of reconciliation, bearers of joy, and champions of justice.

How do we live out this calling? It starts with cultivating a deep relationship with Christ. Through prayer, Scripture, and community, we are filled with the Spirit who empowers us for service. It involves developing a keen awareness of the needs around us, listening with empathy, and responding with compassion. It means using our gifts and resources to build up the body of Christ and serve the world.

We must acknowledge that to be salt and light is not always easy. Our enemy knows our weaknesses and often tries to amplify them and make us loose hope and direction. To resist the temptations that prevent us from being salt and light, we need to nurture in our hearts and lives the virtue of sacrifice, courage, and perseverance, bearing in mind that the reward from God is immeasurable. As we faithfully embody the character of Christ, we not only impact the world around us but also experience a profound transformation within ourselves. We become more fully the people God created us to be, and we participate in the redemptive work of God in the world.

Let us embrace the challenge. Let us be salt that seasons, light that shines. Let us live our lives as radiant expressions of God's love and grace. And we can do this even more as we begin this new month. 

God bless you all!!!

 

 

The Name Above All Names: Living up To the Significance of Jesus’ Name.

Throughout history and across cultures, parents have meticulously chosen names for their newborns, imbuing them with significance and shaping their identities. This tradition extends to the biblical context, where names often hold specific meanings. In the case of Jesus, the name bestowed upon him by God serves as a powerful testament to his identity and mission.

The Meaning of Jesus' Name:

The angel Gabriel's message to Mary (Luke 1:26-38) revealed the name chosen for Jesus: "You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus" (Luke 1:31). This name, derived from the Hebrew "Yeshua" or "Yehoshua," translates to "YHWH saves" or "God saves" (Matthew 1:21). This inherent meaning sets the stage for understanding Jesus' purpose.

Jesus' Name Embodied in Action:

The Gospel narratives portray Jesus' life as a perfect embodiment of his name. His ministry consistently reflected God's saving grace. Notably, in his priestly prayer, Jesus emphasizes the unifying power of the name he shares with the Father: "Holy Father, protect them by the power of your name—the name you gave me—so that they may be one as we are one" (John 17:11).

The Power of Jesus' Name for Believers:

Following Jesus' ascension, he assured his disciples that "whatever they ask the Father in his name, they will receive" (John 16:23). Acts of the Apostles exemplifies this truth. Filled with the Holy Spirit, the disciples preached in Jesus' name, witnessing conversions, healings, and the expulsion of demons (Acts 4). Peter's encounter with the crippled man at the temple vividly illustrates this power: "In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise and walk!" (Acts 3:6). The man not only walked but leaped, praising God (Acts 3:8).

Faithful Invocation, Not a Magic Formula:

Understanding the power within Jesus' name is crucial for Christians. However, this knowledge should be experiential, not merely intellectual. When a Christian invokes Jesus' name with faith and authority, miracles occur. Yet, it's vital to recognize that the name is not a magical formula. The Bible warns against mere "lip service" (Isaiah 29:13). Jesus himself cautioned against this in Matthew 15:8: "These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me."

A Call to Authentic Relationship:

A troubling reality Jesus addressed in Matthew 7:21-23 highlights the importance of a genuine relationship with him: "Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and, in your name, perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!" This passage underscores the need for a life transformed by faith, not simply religious performance.

Avoiding Deception and Embracing Truth:

The contemporary world, unfortunately, witnesses individuals who misuse the name of Jesus to deceive others. Jesus himself warned against such practices in Matthew 24:24: "For many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am the Christ,' and will deceive many." The rampant display of deceptive practices by some religious leaders echoes this very warning. Although men can be deceived but God can never be deceived.

Conclusion: A Deeper Spiritual Understanding:

Therefore, to truly understand the power inherent in Jesus' name, one must cultivate a personal relationship with him. This requires consistent prayer, studying His Word, and actively seeking to live according to his teachings. As John 4:23-24 instructs, "true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. God is Spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth." In a world fraught with challenges and anxieties, Christians are called to deepen their spiritual understanding of how God saves us through Jesus' name.

Guérir le Cœur Blessé : l'Enseignement de Jésus sur l'Adultère et le Chemin vers la pureté du Cœur

Dans Matthieu 5 : 27-32, Jésus nous livre l’un de ses enseignements les plus cruciaux concernant le caractère sacré du mariage et la gravité de l’adultère. Pour comprendre cet enseignement dans son contexte historique et biblique, il est essentiel de retracer les racines des relations humaines et la manière dont elles ont été affectées par le péché depuis la chute d'Adam et Ève.

Contexte historique et biblique

La chute et ses conséquences

Dans le récit de la Genèse, Dieu crée Adam et Ève et les place dans le jardin d’Eden, dans l’intention qu’ils vivent en parfaite harmonie avec Lui et entre eux. Leur relation est conçue pour être une relation d’amour mutuel, de respect et de collaboration. Cependant, la chute, décrite dans Genèse 3, introduit le péché dans le monde, modifiant fondamentalement les relations humaines.

Après avoir mangé le fruit défendu, Adam et Ève éprouvent de la honte et de la culpabilité, ce qui entraîne la rupture de leur relation. Adam blâme Ève, et la relation harmonieuse dont ils entretenaient autrefois est entachée d'accusations et de méfiance. Cet événement crée un précédent pour les luttes de pouvoir, de domination et de séduction qui ont caractérisé de nombreuses relations humaines à travers l’histoire.

L'adultère dans l'Ancien Testament

L'adultère est explicitement condamné dans l'Ancien Testament, notamment dans les Dix Commandements (Exode 20 :14). Cela est considéré non seulement comme un péché contre le conjoint, mais aussi comme une violation de l'alliance de Dieu. Les conséquences de l'adultère étaient graves, entraînant souvent la peine de mort (Lévitique 20 : 10). Cela souligne la gravité avec laquelle l’adultère était considéré dans l’ancienne société israélite.

L'enseignement de Jésus dans Matthieu 5 : 27-32

Dans le Sermon sur la montagne, Jésus aborde la question de l'adultère de manière profonde et radicale. Il dit:

« Vous avez entendu qu'il a été dit : 'Tu ne commettras pas d'adultère.' Mais moi, je vous dis que quiconque regarde une femme avec convoitise a déjà commis un adultère avec elle dans son cœur. Si ton œil droit te fait pécher, arrache-le et jette-le. Car il vaut mieux que vous perdiez un de vos membres plutôt que tout votre corps soit jeté en enfer. Et si ta main droite te fait pécher, coupe-la et jette-la. Car il vaut mieux que vous perdiez un de vos membres plutôt que tout votre corps aille en enfer. »

Un appel radical à la pureté

L'enseignement de Jésus va au-delà de l'acte physique de l'adultère pour s'attaquer à la racine du problème : l'état du cœur. Il souligne que les pensées lubriques sont équivalentes à l’adultère, élevant ainsi le niveau de pureté. Jésus ne se préoccupe pas seulement des actions extérieures mais aussi des intentions intérieures. Cet enseignement nous met au défi d’examiner nos cœurs et nos motivations, appelant à un engagement radical envers la pureté et la sainteté. C'est pour ces raisons que Jésus a dit : « Bienheureux ceux qui ont le cœur pur, car ils verront Dieu » (Mt 5, 8).

Réflexion spirituelle pour aujourd'hui

Reconnaître nos brisures :

Il est important de reconnaître d’abord la blessure que le péché d’Adam e d’Eve a introduit dans les relations humaines. Depuis lors, les relations entre hommes et femmes sont souvent caractérisées par des luttes de pouvoir, de domination et de séduction, plutôt que par l’amour et le respect mutuels. Comprendre ce contexte historique peut nous aider à reconnaître la profondeur de nos luttes et la nature omniprésente du péché.

Rechercher la transformation à travers le Christ

L'enseignement de Jésus dans Matthieu 5 : 27-32 concerne en fin de compte la transformation. C’est un appel à prêter attention à ce qui se passe au plus profond de notre cœur. C'est pour cette raison que Jésus présente la loi de pureté comme une transformation du cœur et pas seulement comme des observances extérieures des lois, (Matthieu 15 : 19-20). Il ne s’agit pas simplement d’un appel à éviter les actions pécheresses, mais d’une invitation à rechercher un cœur et un esprit renouvelés. « Tu adoreras le Seigneur ton Dieu de tout ton cœur…cfr Deutéronome 6 : 4-7»,. Cette transformation est possible grâce à une relation avec Jésus-Christ, qui offre le pardon et le pouvoir de vaincre le péché. En nous concentrant sur Lui, nous pouvons trouver la force de résister aux pensées et aux comportements lubriques.

Embrasser l’amour et le respect mutuels

Un aspect clé pour surmonter la lutte contre la luxure et l’adultère consiste à adopter l’idéal biblique de relations basées sur l’amour et le respect mutuels. Cela implique de considérer les autres comme étant créés à l’image et à la ressemblance de Dieu, méritant dignité et honneur. Cela nécessite également un engagement à la maîtrise de soi et la poursuite de pensées et d’actions pures. Cela est possible lorsque nous collaborons à la grâce de Dieu qui nous est donnée par le Saint-Esprit. Galates 5, 22-26 nous aident à comprendre comment l’Esprit de Dieu nous aident découvrir et vivre de cette liberté intérieure d’aimer en esprit et en vérité.

Quelques étapes pratiques pour la pureté intérieure

1.    Prière et méditation : La prière et la méditation régulières sur les Écritures peuvent nous aider à aligner leur cœur et leur esprit sur la volonté de Dieu.

2.    Responsabilité : Pour les couples mariés, avoir un partenaire responsable peut apporter soutien et encouragement dans la lutte contre ce péché.

3.    Protéger les yeux et l'esprit : Être attentif à ce que l'on regarde, lit et pense peut aider à prévenir les pensées lubriques. Parce que la lampe du corps c’est l’œil, dit Jesus. (Cfr Matthieu 6 :22).

4.    Soutien communautaire : Faire partie d'une communauté chrétienne où on se soutient et s’encouragent mutuellement peut fournir les ressources nécessaires pour vivre ce que Jésus nous enseigne aujourd’hui.

En reconnaissant notre fragilité introduite par le péché d’Adam et Eve, et en recherchant la transformation du cœur en Christ, nous pouvons vaincre le péché de la luxure et de l’adultère. Jésus veut vraiment que nous soyons heureux, que nous vivions une vie épanouie, libres de toute forme d'esclavage dont le péché est une terrible expression. Rappelons-nous que « Heureux les purs d'esprit, car ils verront Dieu ». Que Dieu nous donne la grâce de faire de notre cœur sa demeure et de nos yeux capables de voir les autres et le monde avec un amour semblable à celui du Christ.

 

Healing the Heart: Jesus’ Teaching on Adultery and the Path to Purity (5:27-32).

 

In Matthew 5:27-32, Jesus delivers one of His most challenging teachings regarding the sanctity of marriage and the seriousness of adultery. To understand this teaching in its historical and biblical context, it is essential to trace the roots of human relationships and how they have been affected by sin since the fall of Adam and Eve.

Historical and Biblical Context

The Fall and Its Consequences

In the Genesis account, God creates Adam and Eve and places them in the Garden of Eden, intending for them to live in perfect harmony with Him and with each other. Their relationship is designed to be one of mutual love, respect, and collaboration. However, the fall, described in Genesis 3, introduces sin into the world, fundamentally altering human relationships.

After eating the forbidden fruit, Adam and Eve experience shame and guilt, leading to a breakdown in their relationship. Adam blames Eve, and the harmonious relationship they once enjoyed is marred by accusations and mistrust. This event sets a precedent for the power struggles, domination, and seduction that have characterized many human relationships throughout history.

Adultery in the Old Testament

Adultery is explicitly condemned in the Old Testament, notably in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:14). It is seen not only as a sin against one's spouse but also as a violation of God's covenant. The consequences of adultery were severe, often resulting in the death penalty (Leviticus 20:10). This underscores the gravity with which adultery was viewed in ancient Israelite society.

Jesus' Teaching in Matthew 5:27-32

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses the issue of adultery in a profound and radical way. He says:

“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body go into hell.”

A Radical Call to Purity

Jesus' teaching goes beyond the physical act of adultery to address the root of the issue: the condition of the heart. He emphasizes that lustful thoughts are equivalent to adultery, thus raising the standard of purity. Jesus is not merely concerned with outward actions but with inner intentions. This teaching challenges His listeners to examine their hearts and motives, calling for a radical commitment to purity and holiness. It is for these reasons that Jesus said: “Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God” (Mt 5:8).  

Spiritual Reflection for Today

Acknowledging the Brokenness

For those struggling with the sin Jesus denounces, it is important to first acknowledge the brokenness that sin has introduced into human relationships. Since the fall, relationships between men and women have often been characterized by power struggles, domination, and seduction, rather than mutual love and respect. Understanding this historical context can help us recognize the depth of our struggles and the pervasive nature of sin.

Seeking Transformation through Christ

Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:27-32 is ultimately about transformation. It is a call to pay attention to what is happening deep down in the heart. It is for this reason that Jesus presents the law of purity as transformation of the heart and not just external observances (Matthew 15:19-20). It is not merely a call to avoid sinful actions but an invitation to seek a renewed heart and mind. “You shall worship the Lord your God with all your heart…”, cfr Deuteronomy 6: 4-7. This transformation is possible through a relationship with Jesus Christ, who offers forgiveness and the power to overcome sin. By focusing on Him, we can find the strength to resist lustful thoughts and behaviors.

Embracing Mutual Love and Respect

A key aspect of overcoming the struggle with lust and adultery is embracing the biblical ideal of relationships based on mutual love and respect. This involves seeing others as made in the image and likeness of God, deserving of dignity and honor. It also requires a commitment to self-control and the pursuit of pure thoughts and actions. This is possible when we collaborate with the grace of God given to us through the Holy Spirit.Galatians 5:22-26 help us to understand how the Spirit of God helps us to discover and live this inner freedom to love in spirit and in truth.

Practical Steps for Purity

1.    Prayer and Meditation: Regular prayer and meditation on Scripture can help us align their hearts and minds with God's will.

2.    Accountability: For married couples, having an accountability partner can provide support and encouragement in the struggle against sin.

3.    Guarding the Eyes and Mind: Being mindful of what one watches, reads, and thinks about can help prevent lustful thoughts. “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light.

4.    Community Support: Being part of a Christian community where we support and encourage each other can provide the necessary resources to live what Jesus teaches us today.

Conclusion

Jesus' teaching on adultery in today’s Gospel offers us   a profound call to purity that addresses the heart of human relationships. By understanding the historical and biblical context, acknowledging our brokenness introduced by sin, and seeking transformation through Christ, we can overcome the sin of lust and adultery.  Jesus really wants us to be happy, live a fulfilled life, free from every form of slavery of which sin is a terrible expression. Let’s remember that “Happy are the Pure in Spirit, for they shall see God”.  May God give us the grace to make of our hearts His dwelling place and our eyes capable of seeing others and the world with Christ-like love.

 

Fulfilling the Laws and the Prophets: the Path of Liberation and Peace with Jesus.” Matthew 5:20-26

 

In this Gospel, we are still with Jesus and his disciples on the mountain. Jesus introduces a new topic in his message: the fulfillment of the Law. “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill.” Today, Jesus is teaching us the meaning of this statement and how the law is and has to be accomplished. Let us remember that God gave Moses the Ten Commandments on the mountain. Jesus, as the new Moses, gives his teaching on a mountain. He says: “You have heard that it was said to your ancestors, 'You shall not kill; and whoever kills will be liable to judgment.' But I say to you, whoever is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment…”

Hearing this, one could exclaim, “Oh, many of us are liable to judgment.” Who among us has not, at one time, gotten angry with his brother or even with someone not close to us? So, what exactly does Christ Jesus want us to understand in his teaching?

I would suggest that Jesus wants us to look at the root of problems in human relations. He makes an outstanding connection between anger and murder. A small sin can lead to a greater one. Where do anger, rage, bitterness, resentment, and other similar acts start? They all begin in the heart. (Jesus will return to this teaching in Matthew 15:19.)

When anger, resentment, and other evil thoughts are left unchecked and uncontrolled, they can lead us to more serious sins. Let us remember the story of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4:1-16: “…The Lord said to Cain, 'Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.'” God warned Cain, but he refused to listen; he refused to rule over sin, to conquer the anger within him. This was the beginning of a failed fraternity.

Often, before we commit sins, especially grave ones, God warns us through the “inner voice,” the voice of conscience. In our world today, this is one of the areas where the devil is fighting seriously to eradicate the sense of sin and guilt. Thus, we become so busy with so many things that little or no time is given to meditate on the Word of God and see how it enlightens our life.  The consequence is self-righteousness and relativism.

In the letter to the Ephesians, Saint Paul says: “Be angry but do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and do not make room for the devil.” (Ephesians 4:26-32) In other words, we should try to reconcile with ourselves and others as soon as possible, before it becomes too late.

Again, Christ says: “Whoever says to his brother 'Raqa' will be answerable to the Sanhedrin, and whoever says 'You fool' will be liable to fiery Gehenna.” Raqa is an Aramaic term meaning “empty-headed” or “worthless.” It is similar to a curse that calls into question a person's mental capacity. For Jesus, this is an example of an angry outburst of name-calling. When anger leads us to insulting others, such sin can give birth to a more grievous sin like murder. Unkind words can wound the soul so deeply that, if not healed, can hatch and lead to another evil like vengeance. The pain is even worse when the hurt is caused by a loved one, a relative, a friend, etc.

The end of the Gospel tells us that reconciliation with one another is more important than the offerings we bring to God. Words are powerful; they can uplift others but also harm and destroy others. That is why Jesus asks us to be reconciled with our brother or sister before presenting our offering to God. If in any way the union of love with those around me has been wounded, Jesus is saying that I have to repair it by seeking reconciliation. So let us hold no grudges against anyone.

If I love as Jesus asked me to do, I will be the first to seek reconciliation even if I am the one offended. As St. Paul said, “But God demonstrates his love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)

We know that Christ’s teaching in Matthew 5 is quite challenging, yet it is a way to liberation, to real life, a life of love, peace, and joy. Let us try to be kind and merciful to others. Use kind words instead of hurtful ones.

In our prayers and especially during Masses, let us bring all those who have hurt us and those whom we have hurt to God. May Jesus, the Word of eternal life, speak words of peace and love to our hearts and heal any wounded heart. Amen.