Reflection
In keeping with the theme of the Good Shepherd from yesterday’s Gospel, Jesus in today’s Gospel asks his disciples, and us, to participate in helping the lost sheep be reconciled with the Church’s faith community.
Jesus provides a three-step process for addressing serious sin within the Christian community. The purpose of correction is not condemnation but reconciliation. When a brother or sister falls into sin, love requires that we seek their restoration to communion with God and with the Church. The first step is fraternal correction: “Go and tell him his fault between you and him alone.” This requires humility, prudence, and genuine charity. Before correcting another person, we must examine our own hearts and ask whether our concern truly comes from love or from pride, anger, or a desire to prove ourselves right. We should carefully consider whether the matter is serious enough to address, choose an appropriate time, and speak with gentleness. The goal is not to win an argument but to help our brother or sister encounter the mercy of Christ.
The next two steps in the process require us to involve others or, if unsuccessful, to involve the Church. Both steps require a humble, servant heart acting out of love and pastoral care. If the sinner doesn’t first experience love from those trying to help then their efforts will likely be futile.
Jesus then gives the apostles the authority to bind and loose: “Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven” (Matthew 18:18). This authority, first given to Peter (Matthew 16:17-19) and extended here to the apostles, continues through their successors, the bishops, and their priestly coworkers. Through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, Christ continues to forgive sins and restore his people to communion with the Father and with one another.
Jesus concludes by speaking about the power of prayer among those who are united in his name: “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” In context, this promise is closely connected to reconciliation and unity within the Church. When Christ’s disciples forgive, seek peace, and gather in faith, Jesus himself is present among them. Their prayer is not simply a collection of individual requests but a participation in the prayer of Christ, the beloved Son who continually intercedes before the Father.
Underlying all attempts at prayer and reconciliation is love. Without love, our prayer doesn’t mirror the loving prayer of Christ. Without love, our actions become at best suggestions for improvement, and at worse judgmental in nature. Let us continue to pray for the love of Jesus to guide all that we do.
Today’s Question for Prayer and Reflection
How can I help create a more united and prayerful community where Christ's presence is clearly experienced?
Source for today’s reflection: https://epriest.com/reflections/view/3520