For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven. “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell. “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. “Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still together on the way, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. Truly I tell you, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.
Two things come to mind about this passage.
1. My ongoing troubled relationships with my parents. I take these words of scripture seriously, but it does not tell us to keep beating ourselves up when reconciliation is not being offered in equal offerings. I remain loving from afar rather than fuel anger by entering into fires that desire fuel.
2. The current women bishops and gay marriage debates in the church. Through all this we must hold back our anger and remain loving; despite our differences. That means both sides; and yes that's hard but it's what Jesus tells us to do.
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