In the first reading, God appoints Ezekiel as a “watchman” for the people. A watchman has the responsibility to see what others may not see and, when danger is approaching, to sound the alarm. This is not a responsibility born of judgment or condemnation, but of love. Ezekiel is reminded that he cannot simply remain silent when someone is heading in the wrong direction. There are times in our own lives when we too must be willing to speak a difficult word to a friend, a family member, or a fellow Catholic. That can be uncomfortable. We may be afraid of offending someone or damaging a relationship. Yet genuine love sometimes requires us to have the courage to speak the truth. The important question is not whether we correct someone, but how we do it – with humility, charity, patience, and a sincere desire for that person’s good. To save their soul.
In the Gospel, Jesus gives us a very practical way of dealing with conflict and sin within the Christian community. This is called Fraternal Correction. He tells us first to speak privately with the person who has offended us. We are not to begin by gossiping, complaining to everyone else, or seeking to embarrass the other person. We begin with a conversation marked by respect and love.
Jesus then reminds us of the power of Christian community and prayer: “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” As members of the Church, we are responsible for one another. We are called not to tear one another down, but to help one another return to the Lord. That does include excommunication, which is not a casting out forever, but a last-ditch hope of showing the gravity of the action until it changes. This is especially important in our families, our parish, and our community.
May we have the courage to speak when we need to speak, the humility to listen when we need to listen, and above all, the charity to remember that Christ is present whenever we sincerely gather in his name seeking reconciliation and peace.
We have had a lot of new and young faces here. Whether they are visiting, or from QND or QU, let’s make sure we welcome everyone as Christ to our community. Go talk to them and welcome them. Make sure we are willing to move seats or shift over to welcome people. Make sure we speak to them and tell them how excited we are that they are here. Help them connect and want to return!
Pax et bonum,
Father Arisman