Verse of the Day for September 16

Verse 24 is one of the boldest prayer promises in the gospels. Jesus has just spoken of a mountain thrown into the sea. Then, without a pause, he turns to something that seems very small by comparison. And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any.

Mountains, and then a grudge. Jesus seems to think the grudge is the bigger obstacle.

Notice the posture. When ye stand praying. Forgiveness is not something you finish before prayer begins. It is something that comes up in the middle of it. You are standing there, asking God for something large, and a face comes to mind.

When you feel small, it is tempting to think your private resentments do not matter. You are not a pastor or a leader. Who cares what you hold against your neighbour? Jesus cares. The quiet grudge in an ordinary believer is exactly what he addresses here.

Next time you stand to pray, in a church service or beside your bed, and someone's name rises up uninvited, do not push it away. That interruption may be the most important part of the prayer. Release them there, standing, and then go on asking.

The face that interrupts your prayer may be the point of it.

No believer is too small for their grudges to matter.