Psalm 149
Exodus 12:1-14
Matthew 18:15-20
Romans 13:8-14
Community life can be a wonderful experience. At its best, each member benefits all others and all others benefit each member. Fellowship among believers is only possible when we see and treat one another as Christ has seen and treats us. This week’s gospel passage addresses the difficult reality that community life is not always peaceful. Directly after Jesus gives these instructions he tells the parable of the unforgiving servant. Jesus tells us how to handle such a servant in verses 15-20. The presence of witnesses is for the purpose of “establishing a word.” When multiple members of a community hear one party say on thing, that party is accountable to those witnesses. Otherwise, arguments can go on forever. The community of Christ should be characterized by the same love that reconciled us to God. The morning’s selections are all focused on this love and peace. Let us prayerfully join with one another in humility as we celebrate this love and seek love and forgiveness from one another.
