DO YOUR BEST TO WORK IT OUT

 

DO YOUR BEST TO WORK IT OUT

Christian principles of forgiveness and reconciliation are simple and straightforward—at least in theory. Today, we hear Jesus outline what we should do when someone sins against us. If you study the process, it makes perfect sense—try to resolve the issue amicably among yourselves; if this does not work, seek some help from those with greater wisdom and experience; if nothing can be resolved, then some sort of punitive action may be necessary towards one, or at times maybe both parties. One of the principles at work here is that we need to avoid scandal—not by covering up the truth but by minimizing the opportunity to cause scandal, even if it may mean excluding someone from the community until they repent of their sins and express a willingness to transform their ways.

This process has a clear emphasis on relationships and ensuring that we do all we can to keep them healthy and in a good light. There is no place for vengeance, unforgiveness, or resentment—all of these result in the death of relationships and negative consequences for the health of the community.

The other thing that this process reminds us of is that our relationships with one another have ramifications on the health of the community as a whole. This is important to remember when we confess our sins in the sacrament of reconciliation. When the priest absolves us of our sins, he speaks in the name of both God and the Church community, ensuring us, the penitent, that we have been forgiven by both. Fr. Steve Tynan, MGL

----------- REFLECTION QUESTION ----------

How do you deal with the hurt that comes when someone sins against you?

Jesus, help me to learn how to forgive others as You have forgiven me so that I will not be hypocritical in accepting Your forgiveness. Amen.

Today, I pray for: ____________________________