Message from our Pastor
23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
September 6, 2020
If this reading does not make us uncomfortable then we are totally unconscious. What Jesus outlines for us is how to admonish those whom we know are going down the wrong path. The third spiritual work of mercy is called, “Admonish the Sinner.” Why this is included in the works of mercy speaks of our responsibility to one another. You must read the gospel with its fine nuance before we can put this work of mercy into practice.
First, Jesus says, “If your brother sins against you.” The word “brother” helps us realize that this is between two people that know each other and that there is a relationship, most likely a level of friendship exists. This is not for us to just pick some one out and accuse them of wrongdoing. Rather, we see the wrong in our brother (friend) and because their behavior is detrimental to them or others, we call them on it.
This is so difficult in any relationship. We worry about what reaction we will receive in return. We hope we can persuade our brother or friend to see what we see. There are times where rejection, denial, or just ignoring our words could be the outcome of our attempt. What then is our option? Jesus is smart enough to know human nature and that often our first attempt or our personal approach will not bring forth any outcome. The relationship is at a standstill and the adverse behavior continues.
Jesus provides a second option. If your brother does not listen to you, take one or two others who will provide support with their testimony. I am amazed at how well Jesus understands the human heart, spirit and mind. Jesus recognizes the hardness of heart we can all have when we are confronted due to our weakness and sin. It hurts to have the frailties of life pointed out to us, especially if we are hurting ourselves or others.
We admonish the sinner with the hopes that the person will have a change of heart that will lead to a change in behavior and ultimately a change to a better life. In pastoral ministry I have been in several situations where difficult words had to be said to another. I have done this one-on-one, and several times when one or two others were with me when confronting a person. This is the difficult work of not just being a pastor or priest but being a Christian.
Often my approach in my mind and heart is I do not have the right to do this to anyone. This is not my place. Yet, Jesus calls us to such a task. The attitude to take before we admonish our neighbor is to admonish ourselves. This takes great reflection to see that we are all weak and prone to temptation and sin. If I am willing to say and do the right thing in my own life to overcome my downfalls, then I can approach my brother in a strong spirit of humility. The approach calls for staying away from a self-righteous attitude to a humility that seeks the best and always the good of the other.
If this option does not work, then take this to the church. This is where we gather to pray for the receptivity of the individual. That through the spirit of a faith community, and the power of prayer, the person’s hardness of heart can be softened. If this does not work, then we are left with the resounding presence of God in the person’s life whether they understand it or want to reject it.
I have learned and have tried in my own life not to let the stiffness of pride or ego get in the way of when others might be critical of me. I do not ask for it but have come to learn to listen to it and not necessarily react unless it is worth the emotional and spiritual energy. All I can say is that this gospel is difficult to live out. Another challenge to growing in our spiritual lives with Christ.
We have our Adult Education class on Tuesdays through October 13th. We will meet on Zoom (find the Link on the parish e-mail blast we send every Saturday). We are using the book, “Teachings for an Unbelieving World: Newly Discovered Reflections on Paul’s Sermon at the Areopagus.” Join us at 7PM on the Tuesdays of September up until October 13th. You can still join us, even though we began last Tuesday!
To all our High School students I hope you have heard about our new Youth Minister, Taylor Long. She comes in with great enthusiasm and a desire to serve. We will begin gatherings on Sunday, September 27th after the 11AM Mass. This is the kick-off event and will give our young people a chance to meet Taylor. I hope you will join us! Call Taylor in the parish office if you have any questions.
Please know of my prayers to all of you as we continue through these difficult times for our world. I hope that the start of school brings greater normalcy to all our lives. Have great week.
