Lent Day 9--March 2, 2012

Lenten Reflection for Day 9

Date: March 2, 2012

Author: Carol Brudnicki

Bible Passage: Matthew 5:46–48 (NRSV)

⁴⁶ For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? ⁴⁷ And if you greet only your brothers and sisters, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? ⁴⁸ Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

Reflection:

The words “be perfect” can be understood in many ways. In the Thesaurus it is defined as Faultless, complete, precise, and ideal. The dictionary lists many meanings including: Without errors, flaws, or faults; Complete and lacking nothing essential; Excellent or ideal in every way; very proficient, skilled or talented.

So how are we to understand this command? In the contents of this verse God wants us to treat all those we come in contact with love, consideration, respect and understanding. Another word to we could use would be mature – treat everyone as you would like to be treated.

It is easy to interact with family and friends in a mature Christian manner. It is far harder to treat everyone, especially strangers or those who have wronged you in some fashion with Christian love. Yet this is what Christ is asking us to do. We are to strive to be perfect in our dealings with everyone and not just those we consider our friends and family.

Prayer:

Lord, help me to treat everyone with love and respect. Guide my efforts and enable me to trust you to accept me fully even when I fail.