July 27

First, Reconciliation

So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift. — Matt 5:23-24 BSB

There is a significant difference between memory and recollection.

Memory is like a large chest into which a person casts letters, documents, and various papers. Recollection, however, is the ability to quickly retrieve what one needs from that chest. We know the information is there, we remember having seen it, but no matter how much we search, we cannot seem to find it.

There is a moment of heightened recollection when we stand before God: “When you bring your gift to the altar and remember.” As God’s searchlight shines on our past, it reveals many things that had faded from our minds. Conscience sharpens our powers of recollection.

What does your brother have against you? Is it that you lashed out in anger, speaking bitter and hurtful words? Or is it that you have been cold and distant, ignoring his efforts to reconcile? Perhaps you wronged him, failed to help him when he was in need, or withheld kindness (Exodus 22:26-27; 23:4-9).

We are commanded to be reconciled with our brother before seeking acceptance with God—“first, be reconciled to your brother.” Humility is necessary when approaching God, and nothing humbles us more than confessing our faults to others. Truth is also essential in our dealings with God, and transparency with others fosters truth in our own hearts. Sincere confession is the foundation of peace with God, but how can we know if our confession is sincere unless it costs us more than words? “‘First, be reconciled with your brother”—not only with your earthly brother but with our great Brother in heaven (Genesis 1:17-21; Hebrews 2:11). Then come and offer yourself as your gift, and He will accept both you and your offering.

Prayer

Grant us, O Lord, broken and contrite hearts. Help us to make amends where needed and grant our brothers the grace to meet us with forgiveness. So shall we have peace with You, our Elder Brother, against whom we have greatly sinned. Amen.