“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.” (Mk 5:21-22)

 

In chapter 5 of Matthew, Jesus gives six examples of conduct demanded of Christian disciples.  Each example deals with one of the commandments of the law.  Each begins with the phrase, “You have heard that it was said to your ancestors” or similar words followed by Jesus’ teaching with respect to that commandment.  In today’s gospel, Jesus teaches about the fifth commandment, “You shall not kill” and he goes further by address the underlying motive of anger which leads to killing, “whoever is angry with his brother will be liable to judgement.”  He warns that we will be held liable for even those acts which lead up to breaking the commandment.  

 

Jesus encourages us to forgive and to reconcile with the one causing us to be angry while there is still time.  He puts his new commandment to “love one another” by reconciling with others before worshipping.  “Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift.” (Mt 5:23-24) By reconciling with those who have angered us we place ourselves in right relationship with God and others so that we can worship properly.

Who in my life am I angry with? Who do I need to reconcile with?  Am I the one in need of forgiveness, mercy, and compassion for the things that I have done?    

 

Deacon Joe Trevino

St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church