Friday 10 March
Matthew 5:20-24
Jesus said to his disciples, 20For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 21“You have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, “You shall not murder’; and “whoever murders shall be liable to judgment.’ 22But I say to you that if you are angry with a brother or sister, you will be liable to judgment; 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. 23So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, 24 leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift.
How can God, a God of pure love, tolerate hypocrisy? Do not simply refrain from murder; love one another! God does not want our offerings as much as He wants us to love our neighbor.
As we pray today, let us remember all those who do not see our very best, those who might not know that we are Christians based on our actions.