Daily Reflections

September 4, 2011
OUT OF COURT INTO GOD’S KINGDOM

In one university in the early ‘70s, conflicts among fraternities and organizations were prevalent. Many frat members would end up severely injured. Some even died from frat rumbles. I was a part-time professor in that university and it so happened that the dean of our department was the professor-adviser of these recognized fraternities and organizations. When the tension among these groups worsened, my dean decided to meet all their leaders, representatives and elders. He believed that bringing in law enforcers would just aggravate the situation. This one, he told me, could only be resolved by dialogue.
He set the date, time and venue of the meeting. Then he instructed me to give each participant something to eat and drink as soon as they arrived. I remembered being afraid and tense at that meeting. These were warring groups and it was possible for them to attack each other as soon as they met. But my dean knew better.
As each arrived, I sensed their anger against their enemies. As they ate, they glared at each other. But as they continued eating, they began to put down their guards. Some began to talk about their differences. Others had even reconciled. By the time dessert was served, almost everyone was in the mood for dialogue. And then the dean adviser arrived. Needless to say, the meeting went well. They were even laughing on their way out.
So that was the point of my dean. There is nothing that can’t be resolved by dialogue. Food and drinks helped in disposing them for it. That is also Jesus’ point in today’s Gospel. Why go to court when you can resolve it between the two of you? If necessary, get somebody you trust to be a go between. As a last resort, do it before a community. Harmony is free. If everyone is willing to listen and make sacrifices, jails, criminal courts and lawyers would be obsolete. In a Christian world, dialogue, more than legal battles, prevails. To be united is the rule rather than the exception. We just have to be always open to dialogue and forgiveness. Fr. Benny Tuazon

Reflection Question:
How do I resolve my conflicts with others?

Lord, help me to always remember that dialogue or the meeting of hearts and minds is the best way to resolve conflicts.

St. Thamel & Companions, pray for us.