# 5. 2017 Dev. Mt. 5:23-24. The purpose of these devotionals is to draw closer to God by memorizing selected passages of Scripture. Further, to view the passage in context and grow spiritually by applying His Word to our daily living with family, friends and others. All passages are taken from the NIV.
Matthew 5: 23-24 “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.”
Mt. 5:23-24 is part of the section of Jesus’ sermon labeled “Murder” (V.21-26). Murder is here redefined into a truth that may make us uncomfortable. We now cannot reject our brothers and sisters whatever the differences in conviction. What Jesus is saying is that breaking our relationships is akin to murder. I believe that Jesus is highlighting the importance of our relationships. How do we get along in our families, how do we get along in our church family, how do we get along with our neighbors and how do we see those who do not yet follow Jesus?
This has everything to do with what we think about people, particularly what we think about those who differ from us and what we think about those who do not know Jesus. Further, it has a lot to do with our actions particularly worship. Our worship is unacceptable to God if we have an unresolved conflict with someone. All of life is worship but here it is a particular part of worship, giving our gifts to God and receiving God’s gifts in worship; his Word, His blessings, communion at God’s table and fellowship with God’s people.
What we think about is important but what we do may be more important. Jesus says: Leave your gift at home; worship, funds, praise to God, and go find that person you are in conflict with so that you repair your relationship. Jesus adds, not to do so is akin to murder. Tough words from Jesus but highlights the importance of our relationship to God and to each other. Thank you Jesus!
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Heavenhigh 