March 8

You have heard that it was said to the ancients, ‘Do not murder’ and ‘Anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca,’ will be subject to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be subject to the fire of hell. — Matt 5:21-22 BSB

Christ revealed deeper meanings in the commandments.

Most people would agree that it’s wrong to murder. If that’s all the commandment requires, most people can say they’ve kept it. But Jesus explained that the commandment goes much further. If we are angry with someone or speak with contempt about them, we’ve broken the commandment. And if, while praying, we remember that we’ve wronged someone, we should first go and make things right before continuing with our prayer.

All conflicts are harmful, and if we are in the wrong, we only harm ourselves by continuing the strife. Sinful thoughts are just as serious as sinful actions, so we must guard our hearts where desires and feelings are born.

Many people believe they have the right to seek revenge when wronged, but that’s not Christ’s way. His law of love commands us to return good for evil. The way to treat our enemies is to love them and pray for them.