Matthew 5:21-22
“You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.”
REFLECTION
The difference between murder and manslaughter is grounded in intent. Murder begins with emotion that is expressed in intentional action. In today’s reading we see clearly why Jesus says that he has come “not to abolish the law, but to fulfill it.” If we refrain from the act of murder, we have achieved no more than managing our behavior. God calls us to have transformed hearts that do not hate and cling to anger. Our thoughts and behaviors towards others should be aligned with God’s will and not our emotional brokenness. Christ calls his disciples not to “doing” but to “being”.
PRAYER: Lord, your word is like a mirror, exposing our fear, anger, discontent, and pride. We know these weaknesses lead us to be selfish, violent, and unforgiving towards our neighbors. Give us new hearts of flesh. Take away our fear and replace it with your Spirit. Make us both whole and holy . AMEN
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