Reflecting on Jesus’ words, one may conclude that we live in a world of misplaced priorities. In the pursuit of success, some people hurt others. Yet instead of seeking forgiveness, they plan thanksgiving services, undertake stringent mortifications, or engage in spiritual exercises such as the Stations of the Cross. They justify their actions by claiming that charity or sacrifice can cover a multitude of sins.
Jesus does not condemn the act of making an offering when He says: “If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.” (Matthew 5:23–24) Rather, He makes it clear that we cannot be right with God until we are right with one another. Worship without reconciliation is incomplete.
Reconciliation Breaks Down Barriers
Reconciliation is essential because unreconciled relationships create barriers between people. When we harbor anger or resentment, our hearts become closed. This prevents love and understanding from flowing freely.
Jesus urges us to take the first step — to humble ourselves and seek peace, even when we feel wronged. This is not easy. It requires courage to admit faults, to forgive, and to let go of bitterness. Yet when reconciliation happens, walls of hostility crumble, and bridges of unity and trust are rebuilt. That is why the Apostle Paul reminds us: “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18) The same principle applies to our relationship with God.
Reconciliation with others is the gateway to reconciliation with God. In the Lord’s Prayer, we say: “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.” Our willingness to forgive others opens our hearts to receive God’s mercy. This is why Jesus insists: First, go and be reconciled.
The Risk of Postponing Reconciliation
Postponing reconciliation is unwise. We may not always have the opportunity to make things right. Time is precious.
The First Reading calls us to return to God, assuring us that when a sinner turns away from wrongdoing and returns to the Lord, he shall live. Now is the acceptable time, the time of grace.
The Gospel challenges us to reconcile with our brothers and sisters — by asking for forgiveness or granting forgiveness. Unforgiveness burdens us emotionally and spiritually. Reconciliation sets us free.
Reconciliation Is Essential
Without reconciliation, even our religious activities risk becoming distractions. The philosopher Blaise Pascal observed that human beings often seek diversions to escape the profound realities of existence.
The story of Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1–10) illustrates this truth. Zacchaeus understood the need for reconciliation. He made restitution to those he had wronged. Seeing his sincere repentance, Jesus declared: “Today salvation has come to this house.”
Jesus desires to say the same words to us during this lenten season, so that we may fully experience the joy of Easter.
Let us, therefore, make every effort to reconcile — with God and with one another — for reconciliation is a pathway to true worship, peace, and salvation.
