Again I assure you that if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, then my Father who is in heaven will do it for you. For where two or three are gathered in my name, I’m there with them.
Matthew 18:19f
A statement of Jesus with more force than dynamite! This is the way that changes the world! But Jesus has said a lot before and after this:
He spoke about the guilt of some people. We are not to tolerate sin in the church out of improper consideration, and also are not to push the responsibility to the leader or other people. There are many "small" sins that we forgive easily. But there are sins that must not be in the community, because they make the whole congregation unholy. This is especially true for sexual assault, greed, thirst for power, unforgiveness, malicious gossips about others … There the cleaning has to start if we want the fulfillment of Jesus’ words.
Then there is the "duty" to forgive. If not everyone forgives the other, bitterness is growing in the community and suffocates the love. Then we can pray as long as we want, nothing will happen, for God’s hands are tied.
In a city a mission conference took place. But the atmosphere among the leaders was tense. Mr. A. says, B. only talks about the heaven, B. says, C. only cares about management, not people, C. says, D. is simply too proud, can not apologize, D. says, E. probably enriches himself from the community treasury, E. says that F. …… and so on until Mr. Z. finally says: They finally need to convert and live with Jesus Christ! One started and then it went on: The managers apologized to each other and confessed their guilt. After many tears the atmosphere was transformed: One loved each other. Now the mission conference almost worked by itself, and it was a success. Since then, the communities in the city live and grow again. Jesus could finally take action and do His will. His will shall be done in heaven and on earth!
What is true for communities of a city is just as true for a marriage, a family, a home group, actually for all Christians who meet. Jesus wants act mightily when we pray, but are we praying together as a unit? Are we humble, so that we can first apologize? He is eagerly waiting for to act through us!
Thank you, Jesus, You are stronger than dynamite! You alone can change and save the world. I want to sanctify me for You and do Your holy will. I want to forgive others when I think they do something wrong. I do not want any bitterness in my heart! Help me, my brothers and sisters to meet each other with true love! And then come and reign on earth, as You already reign in heaven. Peace on earth!!
Bible reading today: Matthew 18, 12 – 35