Ezekiel 33:7–9; Psalm 94(95); Romans 13:8–10; Matthew 18:15–20
“The Christian Way”
Dear friends, today we celebrate the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time. In our world, there are many different ways of doing things. The way we respond to situations is often influenced by many factors such as: our relationships, level of education, political affiliation, religious beliefs, economic interests, culture, and many others. For this reason, it can be difficult for us to remain completely objective or neutral. Knowingly or unknowingly, these factors influence the way we understand situations and the decisions we make. Today’s readings speak to us about the Christian way of doing things.
In the first reading, the prophet Ezekiel reminds us that we have a responsibility to warn and correct those who are going astray. God tells Ezekiel that if he fails to warn the wicked person and that person dies in his sin, Ezekiel will be held accountable. However, if he warns the person and the person refuses to change, Ezekiel will have fulfilled his responsibility.
We encounter many examples of this responsibility in our daily lives. How many of us have relatives, friends, or neighbours who have gone astray? Some were baptized but no longer participate in the life of the Church. Others are struggling with alcohol or drug addiction, damaging their families and their own health. Some, despite having abilities and opportunities, have become lazy and contribute little to the wellbeing of their families and society. Others hold public offices but are corrupt and fail to serve the people with integrity. Still others bring us gossip and encourage us to waste our time speaking negatively about others.
Knowing that it is our Christian responsibility to correct those who are going astray, what do we do? Do we correct them with love, or do we simply gossip about them?
The psalmist says, “O that today you would listen to his voice! Harden not your hearts.” This message is not directed only at other people. God’s Word is also addressed to us. Before we point fingers at others, we must allow the Word of God to speak to our own hearts. We too are called to soften our hearts, listen to God, and be willing to change.
St. Paul, in the second reading, tells us that love is the fulfilment of the law. If we genuinely love those around us, we will not deliberately do anything that harms them. Love prevents us from stealing, lying, exploiting, cheating, abusing, or seeking revenge. Without love, it is impossible to fulfil the commandments in their true spirit.
For a deeper reflection on what Christian love means, we can read St. Paul’s beautiful teaching in 1 Corinthians 13:1–13. Christian love is patient and kind; it does not envy, boast, or seek its own interests. It rejoices in what is right and seeks the good of others.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus teaches us how to deal with conflict among brothers and sisters. When we feel that someone has wronged us, Jesus first recommends a one-to-one approach: “Go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone.”
This is an important principle. Instead of immediately telling everyone what another person has done to us, we should first speak directly to that person. Such a conversation gives both parties an opportunity to explain themselves and understand what happened. We may discover that there was a misunderstanding, a misinterpretation, or even something on our own part that contributed to the situation.
Unfortunately, many times we do the opposite. When we feel that someone has wronged us, instead of speaking to the person directly, we insult them, gossip about them, hold grudges, involve other people, or even seek revenge. Jesus proposes a different way.
If the person does not listen, Jesus says to involve two or three others. Their presence can help prevent the situation from becoming a dangerous confrontation. They can listen objectively, help clarify the facts, and mediate between the two parties.
If the person still refuses to listen, Jesus says, “Tell it to the church.” The wider community can then help address the matter and seek a just and peaceful resolution.
Finally, if the person refuses even to listen to the community, Jesus says, “Let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.” This does not mean that we should hate or seek revenge against the person. Rather, there comes a point when we must accept that we cannot force another person to change. We may have to let go, maintain appropriate boundaries, and move forward without hatred.
Jesus therefore gives us a peaceful and non-violent way of dealing with conflict. Violence does not solve conflicts; it usually makes them worse. The consequences can be broken families, damaged friendships, divided communities, and even loss of life.
Dear friends, most of us have experienced conflict with someone close to us. Perhaps some of us are currently carrying a grievance against another person. How are we dealing with it? Have we tried the method that Jesus gives us in today’s Gospel?
There is nothing to lose by trying to speak directly, honestly, respectfully, and lovingly. Many conflicts can be resolved before they grow into deep resentment, hatred, or permanent division.
At the same time, there are people around us who may be going astray and whose future is at risk. What are we doing to help them? Do we have the courage to correct them with love, or do we simply talk about them behind their backs?
The Christian way is not the way of gossip, revenge, hatred, or violence. It is the way of truth, love, dialogue, correction, forgiveness, reconciliation, and peace.
May God give us the wisdom and courage to live this Christian way in our families, communities, workplaces, and society.
Have a responsible Sunday.
Fr. Lawrence Muthee, SVD
SVD JAMBO KENTAN 