MESSAGE FROM FR. MIKE
Matthew 18:15-20
“If your brother should do something wrong against you, go and point out his fault.”
The readings of today’s liturgy, in particular, the first and third readings, invite us to reflect upon “warnings”, which are relevant in our daily life (because they seem to come from all directions).
The prophets in the Old Testament had a particular role to “warn” Israel of any imminent danger. They were the watchmen of the Chosen People.
Ezekiel’s parable has a twist to it: it is not only addressed to the people being “warned” but also to the person responsible to give the warning. So the “warner” is as much on the spot as the “warnee”.
There has always been a need for watchmen, to keep people and property secure. In today’s world they are armed with weapons and electronic devices, but their task is the same as it always was , to keep watch.
Ezekiel is told to carry on his work, no matter what the consequences might be because his own safety is on the line. Those who listen would be spared, those who did not would be condemned.The gospel carries similar responsibility on warnings. We Christians, we need to warn one another.
We have a responsibility “to warn” others.
Jesus said, “Go and confront him (or her) with what he said or did, make him aware of his wrong behavior.” Let him know that he is hurting you , but do it with “concern”, “care” and “love”.
The desire to correct your friend must have the proper motivation. It must be done out of “love” not revenge or retribution.
A child’s prayer, “Dear Lord, “Make all bad people good and make all good people nice.”
In order to accept and give “corrections” being good isn’t enough, we have to be nice. The Pharisees were good, they prayed, paid taxes, gave alms, obeyed rules and regulations. God is not interested in rules, but relationships.
Being nice isn’t always “easy”. It isn’t natural, a fringe benefit which comes by going to Church and being an active parishioner. It is a condition which requires effort and discipline on a daily basis.
