Guided reflection:

Jesus is telling us how the church is to operate. When another believer has wronged you, Jesus does not expect you to sit and do nothing – Jesus gives you a four step process, with the fourth step being rather harsh! But, when we agree and gather in Christ’s name, wow! It becomes a holy moment! Christ is present! In a way, this passage makes it sound like we are to be accountable to each other so the church can keep the most important things most important! We are the church of today. When we can keep away from dissension and hurtful actions, we can focus on our task: To be in God’s presence!

Guided Prayer: Here is an evening prayer from my childhood – have you heard it? Prayed it?

If I have wounded any soul today, If I have caused one foot to go astray, If I have walked in my own willfull way -Good Lord, forgive! If I have uttered idle words or vain, If I have turned aside from want or pain, Lest I myself should suffer through the strain -Good Lord, forgive! If I have craved for joys that are not mine, If I have let my wayward heart repine, Dwelling on things of earth, not things divine -Good Lord, forgive! If I have been perverse, or hard, or cold, If I have longed for shelter in Thy fold, When Thou has given me some part to hold - Good Lord, forgive. Forgive the sins I have confessed to Thee, Forgive the secret sins I do not see, That which I know not, Father, teach Thou me - Help me to live.