40 Days to Heal a Nation’s Racial DivideSample

Day 33: Jesus on Reconciliation

Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift. Matthew 5:23-24 

Jesus is not interested in our worship and gifts if we are angry with our brothers and sisters. He says, go be reconciled and then come offer our gifts at the altar. This is radical today because it means that we are prioritizing relationships with each other and doing life together authentically. This means that we value unity above appearances. 

ACTION: Is there anyone who you are angry with or whom you know is angry with you that you need to be reconciled? Reach out today. If they are not in the place to reconcile, it’s okay. At least you did your part. Not all relationships bounce back when trust is lost and especially if apologies are not made. But we can do our part in obedience.  

PRAYER

Lord, please forgive us for holding on to any anger, bitterness, rage, victim mindset, predatory behaviors, anxiety, fear and vengeful desires. We release our offenders into Your hands. We forgive and pray that You forgive, and that You make our way prosperous when we reach out to them. Please protect us and our loved ones, in Jesus’s Name, Amen.