The Reason for Reconciliation

Who has a problem with you? Maybe you know they have said things to you or about you. Maybe they have been distant ever since that one day. The issue is so real you can feel the conflict when around them or when their name is mentioned.

Today, we are going to study a passage of Scripture that should completely altar your schedule today. No matter what you have on the agenda, something is about to take priority over all other matters: it’s time to seek reconciliation with those you have wronged. Read Jesus’ words on the issue in Matthew 5:23-24.

23 So if you are offering your gift on the altar, and there you remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift.

In this moment, Jesus did not teach to fix something if you have something against another person. He said if you know someone has something against you, then you are responsible to fix it. It’s normal for you to think that if someone has something against you, he or she should be the one to take the initiation when he or she is good and ready to tell you the grievances.

But that’s the difference of Jesus. He excels in paradigm shifts. If you are merely aware that someone doesn’t like you, fix it. If you acknowledge that someone has problems with you, do whatever you can in your power to make peace (Rom. 12:18). Jesus also commands that you do it right away. Even if you were in the middle of a church service worshiping and you remember the tension, Jesus would be more pleased for you to walk out of the service and take care of business.

Who has a problem with you? What is it?  How can you address the situation?  When will you address it?

Obey Christ in this moment and put into motion reconciliation.  Show Christ to someone!