Sep 6, 2020 - 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
(Ez 33:7-9; Rom 13:8–10; Mt 18:15–20)
In the first reading, the message is clear: if we see someone sinning, we are responsible to tell that person that they are doing wrong. If we allow someone to fall without reaching out to save them, God will hold us responsible, too. How do we do this, without coming across as judgmental or “preachy”? St. Paul gives us the answer – by showing that we do this out of an abundance of love. Love does not substitute for the commandments, but with true love of God and neighbor in our hearts, we cannot help but accomplish what the Law commands. In the Gospel, Jesus teaches us what our response to those who sin against us should be. First, we should tell the person that they have hurt us – for they may not realize the harm they have caused. If their response is atonement, we are called to forgive them. If they understand what they did, and are not sorry, then by bringing “two or three others” into the discussion we make it clear that this is not just a personal “difference of opinion,” but a real hurt. After all this, if they still do not atone, we have done what we could. However, at that point, we must not hold on to bitterness, but for our own sake we must offer up the hurt to God and forgive, so that we may heal. Forgiveness may be difficult, but we can begin by asking God for the desire to forgive. Forgiveness does not mean that sin doesn’t matter, or that everything is “all better.” Rather, it is an act of will to let go of the chains that bind us and move forward. Surrender the hurt to our Lord, who can make “all things work to the good for those who love God.” This is so important that Jesus included it in His perfect prayer: “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.”