Devotions Archive Archive: 1999 | 2000 | 2001 | 2002 | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 Search Archive Print This Article Step by step Friday, February 15, 2008 Matthew 5:20-22 Jesus said to his disciples, "For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven. "You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, '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." One antidote for poisonous anger seems to always work for me. Prayer. When I can let myself pray, anger fades. No matter what the reason, the reason seems less reasonable and the anger is diminished. No matter what. I want to participate in what the Apostle's Creed calls the "communion of saints" even though I'm a contributing member of the community of sin. Is that possible? Perhaps by righteousness Jesus does not mean a finished product of sinlessness that, once attained, I claim throughout my life. I hope he's talking about a process I can experience daily. Give me this day my daily bread. Give me this day my daily forgiveness. It's this process I can share in communion with you. My sin, your sin, our sin will either separate us because of our shame and our secrets; or it will bring us together in our confession and repentance. And where two or three are gathered in this way, Jesus is there among us. Lord, when your commandments seem intimidating and impossible, let me see myself through your eyes. Let your light shine on me. "; Add      Edit    Delete