In the Gospel reading, we see a sharp contrast between the authority of Jesus (antithesis) and that of Moses (thesis). It is clear that Jesus' teaching transcends the letter of the law and emphasizes the meaning and spirit of the law for it really goes to the heart of the matter as well as deepening and radicalizing the law itself.

In the text, we are exposed to the first authorities on 'murder'. Here Jesus went to the root of the matter declaring that anger can lead to murder (5:22). So anger is viewed as sinful as murder itself. We have to give up anger and be reconciled with the other because reconciliation accounts for brotherly love. In fact, we know that we cannot relate to God in prayer and worship if we cannot relate with others in love.

Similarly in the first reading, prophet Ezekiel speaks strongly on the need to renounce sin, become law-abiding and honest which ensure us of the certainty to new life.

During this Lenten Season, let us respond to this call to be reconciled with whoever we cannot or do not want to relate with. Let us take up this challenge to reconciliation which leads to true worship and prayer.