Friday of the First Week of Lent 2020

“Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar,
and there recall that your brother has anything against you,
leave your gift there at the altar,
go first and be reconciled with your brother,
and then come and offer your gift.” Matthew 5: 23-24 

Lent is a season and opportunity for soul-searching and conversion. These words of Jesus come from what we call his "Sermon on the Mount," and could easily serve as an examination of conscience for our Lenten observance. The gospel scripture for today speaks of the priority of reconciliation with those from whom we may be estranged! Later on, in the same Gospel according to Matthew, we are offered not only a method (Mt. 18:15-17) but also a parable about forgiveness and reconciliation: the Unforgiving Servant (Mt. 18:21-35).

I have spent many years preaching parish missions and retreats. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is always a part of these events. One of the aspects of this sacrament that I try to emphasize is that the sacramental event is only the beginning of reconciliation, not the end. We still need to practice reconciliation. The parable of the Unforgiving Servant makes it clear that we must be as forgiving as the Lord is! Jesus tells us today that reconciliation should even come before worship! I wonder how big the warehouses would have to be to hold the unoffered gifts from those who find it too hard to forgive, and especially to be reconciled.

Forgiveness and reconciliation are a powerful Lenten challenge and represent a door to conversion of life that reflects the Lord of life!