Matthew 5:20-26.
Do we aspire to live in peace with others? Jesus teaches the need to reach out
and get reconciled with enemies and accusers before we bring our gifts to the
altar. Otherwise, our offerings will have no value in God’s eyes. This gospel inspires
us to say the heartwarming prayer of Eusebius, a 3rd century Father
of the Church: “May I never quarrel with those nearest me: and if I do, may I
be reconciled quickly. May I wish for all people’s happiness and envy none. May
I never rejoice in the ill-fortune of one who has wronged me. When I have done
or said what is wrong, may I never wait for the rebuke of others, but always
rebuke myself until I make amends. May I accustom myself to be gentle, and
never be angry with people because of circumstances. Amen.”
