March 14, 2025

Matthew 5:20-26

In this reading, Jesus points us to what is in our hearts rather than thinking it is enough to just follow the commandments.  It is not enough to say, I have not killed another person so I’m good.  He shows us the serious consequences of being angry with someone in our hearts, or with bearing a grudge.  This could even result in landing you in prison, as in the reading. Before worshiping or making an offering to God, first look to what is in our hearts and make sure we are reconciled with our brothers and sisters, friends and neighbors, and work colleagues.  This advice is both spiritual and practical, as it is the way things work.

Today I see that God provides for us, all of creation, and wants us to rest in that and trust in him.  But then I also see Jesus with rows of seraphim angels closely packed in, shoulder to shoulder, as it were, facing in towards Jesus on both sides of him at the throne of God.  Now they are protecting him because he is wounded, his heart is wide open, and he suffers the pain of the wounded, poor, hungry, and oppressed.  He suffers greatly from the toxic smoke and pollution that harms God’s creation.  Now Jesus and the angels face forward, as Christ victorious, and the light defeats the darkness and shines forth.

Personally, I’m also told to keep it simple and accept the gifts from God sent to assist me.  …. Learn from the women you have seen on the other side. By simply doing their tasks of helping others – cooking, cleaning, caring for children – in these simple ways they have become blessed in the afterlife, even if they were not particularly spiritual or religious. That is all for today. Amen.