September 6, 2026 - Reflect Reconciliation

So today we're closing out our Speak Life series.

And over the course of these last few weeks, we've been focused on the way that we speak, the words that we use, and how we might use those words to bless and not to curse.

We've talked about how to build one another up with our words and how using our words well is the very tool by which we can ensure that we are in right relationship with one another and then reflecting the image of God here on earth.

Because after all, that is what we are here to do.

So in chapter 18 of Matthew's gospel, where our scripture comes from today, Jesus is teaching what relationships should look like among disciples or his followers, and with the world around them.

And in doing so, Jesus teaches about the kind of community life that will be reflective of our discipleship or will reflect who we follow.

So, looking at the whole of chapter 18, verses 1 through 5, indicate that a disciple, a follower of Jesus, will be humble and willing to become like children.

Jesus explains that humility is foundational to a faithful life, and that true greatness is not measured by status or power or influence or being right, but by becoming humble and dependent upon God.

So in our community life, we don't have to compete.

We don't have to wrestle or struggle for importance or position.

And in the world, we are to live as followers of Jesus counter-culturally.

We are to show the world with our example that winning isn't due to status or self-promotion or power.

Those are not the standards by which one wins.

Next, in verses 6 through 9, Jesus explains that disciples are called to take responsibility for how their actions affect others, particularly those who are vulnerable or have less power.

So this means that as disciples or followers of Jesus, we are to cultivate a community where people are safe, where they're valued, where they are able to grow in their faith.

And then we are able to demonstrate to the world God's concern for those who are or have been overlooked or wounded.

Next, in verses 10 through 14, Jesus instructs us to be those who actively seek the lost.

So often we hear or hear.

are reminded about the parable of the lost sheep and how that one sheep, the one who got away from the rest, matters so much to God that our good shepherd leaves the 99 to go find it and bring it back, telling us just how much each of us matters to God.

And this is also an instruction to us.

Not to be content when one of us is lost or when one is lost at all or when one wanders away or needs to be reminded of their value to the community and the world.

Because people matter.

You matter.

We all matter.

Even and especially when one is absent or struggling or even is difficult.