The answer is: Cut it off

Matt 5:30

In Matthew 5:30, when Jesus talks about cutting off your right hand if it causes you to sin, He’s not advocating for literal self-mutilation. What He’s really driving at is the importance of taking drastic, life-changing measures to deal with sin in our lives. Just as the extreme action of cutting off a limb signifies a serious commitment to righteousness, we are encouraged to identify and remove influences in our lives that lead us away from doing good.

This concept echoes the ancient approach to personal accountability found throughout various scriptures. It reminds us of Jonathan and David’s friendship, where loyalty and personal integrity stood central—choices were about protecting one another from moral downfall.

Fun fact: In the first-century Jewish context, the 'right hand' symbolized strength and honor, which makes it especially profound that Jesus exploits this metaphor to highlight how seriously we should treat the choices we make. On another note, when self-discipline is in focus, think about the Athletes of ancient Greece who made considerable sacrifices to compete. Their dedication is akin to the sacrifices we must cherish in our pursuit of a virtuous life.

To draw a modern parallel, consider how we might need to 'cut off' toxic habits or negative environments to flourish. Ultimately, it’s about a personal transformation that prioritizes integrity, compassion, and support in community because, at the heart of it, it's about enhancing love—both for ourselves and for others. That should inspire us all!