Reflection
Gospel
Jesus said to his disciples: “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have won over your brother.
If he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, so that ‘every fact may be established on the testimony of two or three witnesses.’
If he refuses to listen to them, tell the church. If he refuses to listen even to the church, then treat him as you would a Gentile or a tax collector.
Amen, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be lost in heaven.
Again, amen, I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything for which they are to pray, it shall be granted to them by my heavenly Father.
For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”
Matthew 18: 15-20
Reflection
On this Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary time, we are invited to follow Christ through loving ourselves and one another. Jesus teaches a simple model for conflict resolution. He urges us to attempt to resolve the matter directly with the person with whom we are in conflict. When this works out, it can be a very powerful and affirming experience for both people. But as we know, it can be very difficult to approach someone with whom we disagree.
Jesus goes on to give the sage advice of involving other people in the discussion to carefully listen to the perspectives in an effort to seek clarity. Today, that person could be a good friend, a trusted boss or a professional mediator. Unfortunately, we are often hesitant to involve others in a conflict as we (falsely) believe that not being able to work everything out ourselves is a sign of weakness. How wonderful to hear that encouragement from Jesus to seek support in resolving our differences. Yet, we must listen carefully to his words as Jesus wants us to take a prayerful stance when we approach the conflict. This can be so difficult when we have been wounded by another and are fearful about the interaction.
Experiencing conflict can be such a lonely experience, but Jesus reminds us that we do not need to face the challenge alone as he is with us. He tells the disciples: “Again, amen, I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything for which they are to pray, it shall be granted to them by my heavenly Father. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them."
Today let us ask God for the courage and clarity to serve as a watchman. Let us ask for the grace to view our neighbours with empathy and compassion. Let us listen carefully for the voice of God with open hearts. May we ask God for the gift of self-love so we can generously share that love with others, especially with those we find difficult to love. If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.
Julie Leonard Religious Education Leader/Wellbeing Leader