Reflection

In a few days, we will remember the 7th anniversary of September 11, 2001. People affected by the World Trade Center terrorist attack will recall what they were doing that day or where they were during that fateful morning. I happened to be doing my graduate school at Fordham University and living in a parish in Manhattan that time. Most of us woke up that day thinking it was just another day. Little did we know that by the end of that day, not only was the landscape of Manhattan changed, but the lives of so many people were forever altered. In just one short morning lives were lost, families torn apart permanently, plans and dreams will remain unrealized. Amidst the fear and confusion, we saw courage, hope and goodness in the hearts of many people. We saw a changed of priorities, from the ephemeral to the essentials of life. We also saw faith rekindled even for a short time during the days that followed 9/11.

Some years after the dust has settled and debris cleared from Ground Zero, a place hallowed by the victims who died there, we’re still faced with the question “Can the world be a better place?” The perpetrators have supposedly been bomb out of their hiding places. But is the world we live in a more peaceful and just place? Or is the world more divided, unstable and filled with conflicts than ever?

Such conflicts are the concerns of the early Christian communities as we find them in our readings today especially the Gospel. Jesus tells us what to do when a “brother sins against you.” The first step is to be straightforward but prudent. Approach the person privately and without being self-righteous, tell the person their fault. If the person reacts negatively, Jesus says to ask help from others in order to account for the seriousness of the matter. When the invitation to change is met with continued intransigence, bringing it to the Church community is always the last resort. The threefold process that Jesus presents might appear simplistic to some. But try to apply it and you will see how challenging it is.

We call the approach recommended by Jesus as fraternal correction. As there are differences and conflicts in the global family, our areas of immediate concern are those that are within our reach. It is not easy to resolve, much more, reconcile with those we have conflicts or broken relationships. Those who receive corrections can interpret it us a personal attack on their integrity, and thus, lash back at the messenger. Or, we can listen openly and learn more who we are and grow from it. Those giving the correction must also listen to the intentions in their heart why they are offering the correction. Listening is basic in bridging conflicts and differences.

Response

It is a lot easier to talk about someone. But it takes courage to talk to that someone.