Monday – Gospels

Reading – Matthew 5

Highlight Verse:

““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 ‭NIV‬‬

In a day when sacrifices at the temple in Jerusalem were of utmost importance,

Jesus made it plain that relationships were more important.

I have different opinions on politics, religion, and other topics from some of my siblings, kids, and friends. I have tried to make it perfectly clear to each that I value my relationship with each of them more than standing up for my opinions.

We do occasionally get into discussions about our differences but we keep our conversations polite and respectful, recognizing that we have the right to have different opinions.

I’ll admit that sometimes takes great effort.

But the effort is worth it. We live in a time when everyone can fully express their opinions on social media (until certain content censors kick in). Many do so in terms that belittle anyone who disagrees with them.

I recognize that certain issues are very important, but we would do well to remember that Jesus valued relationships above all else. He would probably sum it up with the phrase

“Love God and love people.”

Let’s do that even here on social media.

Before anyone takes offense at this post, know that I am not thinking of any particular person. I just know I’ve seen post wars on social media that were anything but loving and respectful.

Are there relationships that you could help repair with offering a little more respect?
What are ways we can express our opinions in a respectful manner?