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March 15, 2019

In the Gospel reading, Jesus instructs us on our dealings with one another, with those against us. Even friends have disagreements: it has been said it may take time, even years, to build a bond among people; in seconds, the bond can be destroyed.

We have to be very careful in our words and actions with other people. Impatience and anger can make us do things we would regret later: cursing and bad impolite language can cause collateral damage for relationships.

We need to speak truthfully, perhaps softly but firmly. We cannot allow our bad temper or hot emotions to get the better of us and ruin close relationships and friendships. Let us always pray for the grace of a more peaceful and patient demeanor.

Dear Lord, when our tempers flare, please help us to calm down. Let us be more conscious that we all live in glass houses. Harmful statements become rocks that break our windows and the windows of others. May our words be always filled with healing and hope. Help us to let go of hate and bring in more of love.

One Bread, One Body

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All Issues > Volume 35, Issue 2

<< Friday, March 15, 2019 >>

Ezekiel 18:21-28
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Psalm 130:1-8

Matthew 5:20-26
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FAIR TO MIDDLIN'?

"The Lord's way is not fair!" �Ezekiel 18:25

When someone, even God, acts in a way contrary to our standards, we claim that the person is unfair. When we begin to see how God does things, we move toward the conclusion that God's thoughts and ways are very different than ours (Is 55:8-9). Then we are tempted to "say, 'The Lord's way is not fair!' " (Ez 18:25)

One of our standards is to "rest on our laurels," to take it easy after we've already worked hard. This standard may be acceptable in some cases, but it is never acceptable in our relationship with the Lord. Those in love are not content with merely having given love; rather, they want to love more deeply in the present and even more and more deeply in the future. Those in love are never satisfied with the depth of their love. They are not complacent. They consider it almost neglectful merely to maintain the status quo in giving love.

The nature of love is to break new ground, strive for excellence, and go to extremes. In effect, the nature of love is the cross of Jesus. "The Lord's way is not fair!" (Ez 18:25) It is beyond "fair;" it is the way of love and mercy. It is the way of the cross.

Prayer: Father, teach me to love You with abandon.

Promise: "If you bring your gift to the altar and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift at the altar, go first to be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift." —Mt 5:23-24

Praise: Tom and Mark reconciled, and thus Jesus brought peace to both families.