Matthew 5:20–26 RECONCILIATION BEGINS IN THE HEART

Year A, Friday of the First Week of Lent

In today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks words that may surprise us. He says that righteousness is not only about avoiding serious wrongdoing; it begins much deeper — in the heart. He teaches that anger, resentment, and broken relationships matter just as much as outward actions.

Jesus moves us beyond external religion. It is possible to pray, attend worship, and fulfill religious duties while still carrying anger or bitterness toward someone. But Jesus tells us that reconciliation is essential. He even says that before offering our gift at the altar, we should first seek peace with our brother or sister.

Why is this so important? Because unresolved anger slowly closes the heart. It affects our peace, our relationships, and even our prayer. We may continue outwardly with life, but inwardly we carry heaviness.

Lent invites us to look honestly at these hidden places within us. Perhaps someone has hurt us deeply. Perhaps misunderstandings or long-standing tensions remain unresolved. Reconciliation does not always mean solving everything immediately, but it begins with a willingness to soften our hearts — to pray for healing, to let go of revenge, and to take the first step toward peace when possible.

Jesus reminds us that love of God and love of neighbor cannot be separated. The journey toward Easter passes through forgiveness.

This is not easy. Forgiveness often feels like a cross. But when we forgive, we are not excusing wrongdoing; we are freeing our own hearts. We allow God’s mercy, which we ourselves constantly receive, to flow through us to others.

Lent becomes real when prayer leads to reconciliation and when faith reshapes how we treat one another each day.

Question to Ponder: Is there someone I need to forgive, pray for, or seek reconciliation with during this Lenten season?

With Love and Prayers

Your Co-Traveler

Fr. Leo