10 September, 2023 | 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

 Gospel Mt 18:15-20

Gospel Text:

Jesus said to his disciples:

"If your brother sins against you,

go and tell him his fault between you and him alone.

If he listens to you, you have won over your brother.

If he does not listen,

take one or two others along with you,

so that 'every fact may be established

on the testimony of two or three witnesses.'

If he refuses to listen to them, tell the church.

If he refuses to listen even to the church,

then treat him as you would a Gentile or a tax collector.

Amen, I say to you,

whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven,

and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

Again, amen, I say to you,

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."

Reflections:

Human desires can often tempt individuals into engaging in actions that are sinful. Desires for wealth, power, pleasure or revenge can lead to immoral behaviour if not kept in check. Jesus comprehended the complexities of human interactions and acknowledged our inclination towards sin. He provided guidance on how to confront sin when it arises, understanding the challenges of maintaining harmonious relationships. Unity becomes attainable when love unites people. Jesus emphasized the significance of loving one another, as he believed that when love prevails, the allure of sin diminishes and he promised his presence when two or three are gathered together in prayer.

Activity 

Give more importance to actively listening to others when they voice concerns or disagreements, rather than solely concentrating on defending your own viewpoint.