Hi and welcome to today's encouragement from Our Daily Bread.

I'm Arthur Jackson, and I titled today's devotion, timely resolution.

The unresolved hurt between Simon and Jeffrey had persisted for years, and Simon's attempt to

re-enter the relationship had been resisted. Upon hearing the news of the death of Jeffrey's mother,

Simon traveled up-country in Kenya to attend her funeral service. Simon reflected on their encounter.

I had no expectations at all in terms of how the whole thing would turn out.

But after the service, we opened up and had a fruitful talk.

We hugged, shared the moment, prayed together, and planned to meet again. If only Simon and

Jeffrey had been able to reconcile earlier, so much ongoing pain could have been avoided.

The words of Jesus in Matthew 521 to 26 helped to put unresolved relational tensions in perspective.

The anger that can lead to such rifts is a serious matter. Furthermore, getting things in order

relationally is a fitting prelude to worshiping God. The wise words of Jesus to settle matters quickly with your

adversary remind us that the sooner we do what we can to work toward reconciliation, the better

for all. Relationships are risky. They demand work. In our families, in the workplace, in educational settings, and among people

who share our faith in Christ. But as those who represent Him, the Prince of Peace, may we find

ourselves going out of our way to extend our hearts and hands to those with whom we have

unresolved conflict.

Today's Our Daily Bread Devotional Scripture reading is from Matthew

5, verse 21 to 26.

You have heard that it was said to the people long ago.

You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.

But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a

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