The greatest hindrance to reconciliation is the anger we sinfully hold in our hearts. It is why Jesus specifically says it must be dealt with immediately. As we consider the movie The Parent Trap and how the father and mother eventually reconcile, we look to Christ's words to learn how to deal with anger in order to obtain reconciliation with others. Our God is all about reconciliation and He provides the way for it by helping us acknowledge its obstacle (anger), seeking out the alternative, and helping us find an answer.

Matthew 5:21-26

21 “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’ 22 But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire. 23 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. 25 Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are going with him to court, lest your accuser hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you be put in prison. 26 Truly, I say to you, you will never get out until you have paid the last penny.

For Adult Homes and Groups

1. Read Proverbs 17:14.

2. How does this Proverb complement Jesus’ command to “Come to terms quickly with your accuser...”?

3. Can you remember a time you had an argument with someone that got out of hand and went beyond where it should’ve gone? Was there a moment you could’ve stopped it from escalating? How can you prepare yourself better the next time you face an argument?

4. Jesus Christ made the first move in bringing full reconciliation between ourselves and God. In the same way, He calls us to do the same with others (Matthew 5:23-24). Are there any relationships right now with someone in your life that need reconciling? Pray and consider what would be the best first move to make toward that person.

For Families with Kids

1. Write 2 Corinthians 5:17-18 down and tape it somewhere in your home where it will be seen often.

2. Reconcile: to restore a relationship with someone that was broken in some way.

3. Our relationship with God was reconciled when Christ died for our sins on the cross and rose to new life in His resurrection. In Him, we are to daily make sure others hear this about themselves in their relationship with God and how we resolve any conflict we might have with them.

4. Is there someone you’re angry at right now? First, think about why you’re angry and then consider if they have a reason to be angry at you. Next, brainstorm alternatives that don’t involve keeping anger inside. Finally, pray that Jesus gives you the answer and strength to reconcile with the other person this week.