“Come to good terms with your accuser quickly, while you are with him on the way to court, so that your accuser will not hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the officer, and you will not be thrown into prison. Truly I say to you, you will not come out of there until you have paid up the last quadrans” (Matthew 5:25-26).
How often does a sin, which in one sense may be a small one, become something much larger because we will not repent? Sadly, pride often gets in the way, and we do not admit our own fault. When this happens, what could have been simply resolved becomes a much larger problem. Which is better to say, “I am always good,” or “Lord, I too have sins and I need to learn how to repent and do better?”
Eventually, we shall all stand before a judge, some on this earth, but ultimately before our Lord and Savior. Do not live in avoidance, but confess your sins, acknowledging your fault, and seeking forgiveness for all. We each will pay the price for our actions. Do not hide behind pretense but live in truth. The Lord will lead you and guide you in all your ways. Lean on Him and not your own understanding.
Lord, help me err on the side of charity. If I know that I have offended another, guide me through repentance to be quick to confess, slow to blame, and always have a heart of charity. You know where I am and the issues I have. Lead me in Your goodness to do what is right now and always. Lead me in the direction of reconciliation with those whom I have harmed. Lead me in the way of love and faith. Amen.
