Matthew 5:21-22

You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ 22 But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell. - Matthew 5:21-22

Dear Jesus,

When I read the commandment not to murder, I feel righteous. I have never murdered anyone. But when you teach the deeper meaning, I am condemned and so is everyone else. I have called people names for making mental errors. I have judged them in my heart for their mistakes and I have defamed other drivers on the road around me. O Jesus, I have murdered people's reputations with my words. It's so easy for us sinners to measure sins by degrees. But you won't allow that. If we put someone down, it's the same as murder to you and our heavenly Father. Forgive me for murdering people before you. Thank you for letting yourself be murdered in every way for me. If it were not for your substitution I would be lost forever. In love, I will work very hard to preserve the lives and reputations of everyone around me.

Amen

Pastor Don Patterson

God never flies off the handle at anyone you despise. He loves them too much.