“So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. ”
In the classic sermon on the mount, Jesus says something that was rather unusual for the Jew of the day. This statement implies our vertical relationship with God is based on our horizontal relationship with our brother and/or sister. Unusual because the Jew would demonstrate their love for God by keeping His commandments. If they kept the commandments, then God and everyone was happy. But now, Jesus is saying, before you bring Him your gift; make sure things are right between you and your brother and/or sister.
As we journey across these 21 days of prayer, I encourage you to go and find that someone — family, co-worker, neighbor — that has something against you. Pray first then reach out and ask them for forgiveness. Then, go before God and bring that gift, bring that petition, and offer Him that praise. I guarantee you — you will be blessed.
Today’s Prayer
Father, I pray you give me the grace to speak to those whom I have offended. I pray my words be seasoned with grace and may find favor with them so that we can be reconciled. Thank you, Lord for your Word and the unmerited favor you have with us.