So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.
What’s worse than finding a worm in your apple? Finding half a worm. Either way, the apple is shiny, red, and juicy , but inside is a disgusting source of protein. Jesus said these words in the Sermon on the Mount to illustrate how people do their religious duties, singing, praying, and giving, while inside, their heart is poisoned with disdain for their fellow worshipers. This must not be. Jesus told his hearers to skip the ritual if that is the case and go right to the reconciliation. It will make the worship more meaningful.
God gave us the best illustration of reconciliation when Jesus made peace between us and God by shedding his blood on the cross. That is why we gather together, to celebrate that fact. No one wants to join a club in which all the members argue and bicker with each other. They get enough of that in the world. The same goes for a church. If people struggling for community don’t see love and reconciliation in the church, where will they find it? On social media? In bars? Our job is to present the gospel of Jesus Christ as the best way to have reconciliation with God and each other. Our job is to present the church as the only real community based on love and mercy. At CCC, we walk to the altar with our offering. If you are walking up while hating your brother, we would rather you stay in your seat. Seek reconciliation as best you can.
Then come and worship.