Fresh Studies in Matthew: Matthew 5:21-24

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21 “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder,[a] and whoever murders will be in danger of the judgment.’ 22 But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause[b] shall be in danger of the judgment. And whoever says to his brother, ‘Raca!’ shall be in danger of the council. But whoever says, ‘You fool!’ shall be in danger of hell fire. 23 Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. 25 Agree with your adversary quickly, while you are on the way with him, lest your adversary deliver you to the judge, the judge hand you over to the officer, and you be thrown into prison. 26 Assuredly, I say to you, you will by no means get out of there till you have paid the last penny.

Verses 21-24 seems to be referring to spiritual relational health and 25-26 for political or civic.  Perhaps it’s a contrast between the two, but making peace in both realms is important.  There is no value ever in making conflict with another or letting it go on, intentionally at least.  Sometimes these things happen unintentionally, but “if you remember at the altar that your brother has anything against you” (as opposed to you having something against your brother) take care of it quickly in both cases; don’t let it go on.
So, does this apply to me?  Maybe not right this minutes, but it could.  I do sometimes think a person or rather my relationship with that person, is expendable.  But none are. Not all are equal in terms of the time and effort spent on them, but none are expendable. 

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