Gospel Reflection - 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year A

Matthew 18:15-20

When you have a grievance with another person, what is your first instinct in resolving the issue? Some people don’t like conflict, so they turn instead to others not involved to share their complaints, get opinions, or to simply seek sympathy & validation for their feelings. In today’s social media world, many head straight to Facebook, Twitter, etc. to complain or to indirectly reach the person with whom they are upset.

Jesus encourages His followers, including us, to first seek reconciliation directly with the one who has offended us. Often disagreements are simply a matter of misunderstanding or miscommunication that can easily be resolved one on one. Sometimes, however, we need to bring another party into the discussion, a neutral person with a fresh perspective on the issue at hand. There will be times when there is still a refusal to listen which requires going even further & bringing in the church community. 

Jesus says that if none of those work, then we should treat them as a Gentile or tax collector. I always thought this statement was harsh coming from Him. After doing a bit of reflection & researching, I found it isn’t as negative of a directive as it sounds. It is a reminder to treat others as Jesus would. He didn’t come to spend time with only the good, holy people. He sought out sinners & called them to repentance. He never gave up on trying to reach those in the margins, even going so far as to shed His blood on Calvary to save us from our sins! 

In what manner do you attempt to resolve conflicts with another person? Is your way successful?

Have you ever needed to be corrected by a fellow Christian? How was the situation resolved & how did you feel about it?