The Catholic Calendar for Sunday, September 4, 2005
The Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Ezekiel 33:7-9
Psalm 95:1-2, 6-9
Romans 13:8-10
Matthew 18:15-20
A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:
Union in Christ receives all through prayer; What about sin that divides?
(see Matthew 18:15-20)
If two of you agree on earth about anything for which they are to pray, it shall be granted to them by my heavenly Father. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. This hope rests in Jesus promise that whatever we ask in His name will be granted by His Father because He is with us. We need only ask together and trust. We can truly, Be not afraid, because Peace is with us.
Jesus first reminds us however, that sin divides us, and He prescribes the process for resolving that sin between us. This is most noteworthy as it reminds us we are to prefer release rather than binding one anothers sins. Resolving the issue privately is the first option Jesus prefers and wins over the brother, protects his privacy, reputation and elicits good will. Failing to resolve the sin privately, Jesus suggests one take one or two others to impartially listen and assist with resolving the sin. Refusal to listen to these, one next seeks the counsel of the church, which, if refused by the transgressor, Jesus suggests, invokes treatment as one would a regard a persistent nonbeliever or one who takes advantage of others. His authority to forgive or retain sins begins on earth and remains so in heaven.
O Lord, may Your sobering reminder encourage the stubborn soul to humbly repent and remind the injured soul, to seek all possible means to assist with the resolution of sin for the good of the others soul. Amen.
- Mary Williams
(www.impactbydesign.biz)
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posted by joachim at 4:13 AM