In the classic novel Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë, Jane is an orphan taken in unwillingly by her aunt. The woman treats Jane unfairly in comparison with her own spoiled children. Jane is a sensitive, passionate child with a keen sense of justice, and is often angry at her aunt. As a young adult, however, she learns about grace and forgiveness. When Jane is called to her aunt’s deathbed, she forgives her, even though her aunt hadn’t changed at all.

In today’s reading, Jesus addresses the topic of reconciliation. Jesus tells us that seeking reconciliation should be a high priority (vv. 23–24). “Therefore” (v. 23) essentially means “so that you don’t harbor ongoing anger or resentment in your heart and thus come under judgment.” We might be about to worship, but if we remember such a situation, no matter how small, we should leave and go repair the relationship (Matt. 5:9). Any sin, including anger, interferes with worship. Once peace has been made, then we can return to the altar.

In general, we are to keep short accounts and not allow anger to fester (vv. 25–26). This makes sense even at a practical level. If anger is left unchecked, we might find ourselves taken to court or thrown in jail. Obviously, it is best to seek reconciliation quickly. To “settle matters” does not mean just to come to terms or stop fighting. Literally it means to “make friends.”

Since any conflict with fellow believers hinders our worship of God, settling the matter is urgent. After all, since Christ reconciled us to God (Rom. 5:10–11), should we deny reconciliation with another? How otherwise can we have a “ministry of reconciliation” or credibly proclaim the “message of reconciliation” (2 Cor. 5:18–19)?

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