The Christian religion is all about justice.

Many other ideologies and religions would make the same claim.

But Jesus said his revelation about justice was unique — distinct from other notions of justice.

In the Gospel reading in Traditional Catholic churches today (Fifth Sunday after Pentecost), he says:

I tell you that unless your justice surpasses that of the Scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter into the kingdom of heaven.

You have heard that it was said to past generations: ‘Thou shalt not kill. And whosoever kills shall be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgment. And whoever says to his brother, ‘. . . you fool’, shall be in danger of hell fire.

If therefore you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has anything against you; leave there your offering before the altar, and go first and be reconciled with your brother: and then coming back you shall offer your gift. (St Matthew’s Gospel, chapter 5)

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What was different about Christ’s justice from that of ordinary Jewish teachers of his day?

He was saying that if there is an unresolved injustice between you and another human being – your relationship with God is DEAD.

No good participating in the Eucharistic sacrifice and presenting oneself at the altar – God will not even see you there if you haven’t sorted that matter out.

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Jesus mentions hell. Yes, this is a serious matter. It determines our eternal destiny.

I would fear to die in a state of enmity or hate or hostility towards God.

Well, I must not risk dying in such a relationship with any human person.

It’s a matter of urgency. I must do my utmost to sort it out today. I may not have a tomorrow.

In the Bible, Saint Paul teaches, “Speak the truth, every man of you, with his neighbour; for we are members one of another. Let not the sun go down upon your anger.” (Epistle to the Ephesians, chapter 4)