Friday 23 February 2024

Today is Friday the 23rd of February, in the first week of Lent.

The community of Taizé sing Dieu ne peut que donner son amour: “God can only give faithful love, tenderness and forgiveness.” As you listen, you might think for a moment about that need for forgiveness, and the need, too, for us to show that same forgiveness to others.

(Lyrics currently unavailable)

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew.

Matthew 5: 20-26

For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.

‘You have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, “You shall not murder”; and “whoever murders shall be liable to judgement.” But I say to you that if you are angry with a brother or sister, you will be liable to judgement; and if you insult a brother or sister, you will be liable to the council; and if you say, “You fool”, you will be liable to the hell of fire. So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift. Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are on the way to court with him, or your accuser may hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you will be thrown into prison. Truly I tell you, you will never get out until you have paid the last penny.

“If you are ever angry with your brother or sister…”. Take a moment to bring to mind a time you were angry with a brother or sister, or friend or colleague…maybe someone at church or in your community…what was the outcome?

“If you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go first and be reconciled…”. Have you yourself experienced or witnessed a moment of reconciliation like this? What was it like?

Now listen as the passage is read to you once more. Is there anything that leaps out at you?

Finally, looking back over this time of reflection and contemplation, is there a thought that you might be able to turn into a prayer to God, to sum up what has been going on inside you?

You have given all to me
To you, Lord I return it.
Everything is yours
Do with it what you will.
Give me only your love and your grace.
That is enough for me.
Amen.