Vertical-horizontal relations

Matthew 5: 20 - 26

.....leave your gift at the altar, go first to be reconciled....

To God both horizontal and vertical relations matter. It cannot be just 'piety' on Sundays in church. People are watching and even more, God is watching. It is bad enough that we would be poor witnesses if we spend six days in the marketplace and leave others with a poor opinion of Christians. But in the 'holy place' where we appear pious, God sees the truth about us and demands that even worship must be postponed for reconciliation.

As I read the passage carefully, it seems that Jesus speaks first of all to the offender - especially the person whose display of anger and insults (calling someone derogatory names) has led to a rift or distance in a relationship. Or to a person who has wronged another (perhaps cheated) and is being taken to court to be sued. This reminds me that we do need to be aware when we have offended others. In close relationships especially, and in families it is easy to take others for granted - as if good friends or family should easily forgive our 'bad temper' or moodiness. And if there has been true fault in a legal matter, it is better to admit guilt and try to settle matters with the one offended. I know that I should be the same person everywhere and in every situation. I have far to go, for it is easier to be 'nice' in public and in church than in my own home. But being the 'same person' at all times is true integrity. And the one who sees it all is none other than God, who evaluates us not only by our deeds but also by our character - what we are made of when no one else sees us. Perhaps the practice of honest self examination before worship and even daily might be a fruitful practice this Lent, and beyond.

(Jesus' teaching about forgiving the offender is found in a later chapter (18) of the gospel of Matthew and I believe complements this section)