Gospel Reading: Matthew 18:15-20
Where two or three are gathered in His Name, He is in our midst. That is Christ-centered community.
Christ-centered community can take on many forms: family, religious community, parish community, etc. Some important characteristics of a Christ-centered community are harmony, peacefulness, and unanimity. In uncomfortable situations, our first reactions might be resentful silence, gossiping, or publicly airing our grievances. However, community is meant to be a place where we build each other up and work to resolve conflicts. In describing early Christian communities, it was said, “look how they love each other,” and “the community was of one mind and heart.”
Today’s Gospel reading is brief but clear. If we can’t resolve conflicts among ourselves, then we need to enlist the assistance of others. In our contemporary world, this sometimes translates to seeking the assistance of a third-party professional, such as a therapist or marriage counselor, or simply friends who can provide objectivity. The ultimate purpose of this mediation is not accusation, but support and reconciliation.
Today’s Gospel outlines a series of progressive steps for resolving conflicts, from having the two individuals or parties privately address the conflict to broader community mediation. Separation is warranted only as a last resort. Even then, this separation is not meant to be permanent. The door is always open for reconciliation. Reconciliation is always God’s will, and Jesus is present in our efforts to reconcile.
In his recent papal visit to San Marino on August 22, Pope Leo XIV paraphrased Saint Augustine, often described as a “Restless Heart,” who advocated that we be united in the Heart of Jesus. Our Holy Father reminded those gathered of the dignity of each person and their being worthy of respect, adding that conflict can be resolved if we see each other as children of God. We are called to be bridge builders.
In reality, community is made up of flawed individuals, including ourselves. We cannot escape the realization that we are sinners, but healing and reconciliation can begin when we view each person we encounter as God sees them: as a beloved son or daughter. The legacy of our beloved Mother Foundress, Blessed Mary of Jesus the Good Shepherd, “charity, charity, charity” points the way. To be Christ-centered and to be other-centered, we need to look past flaws, to love and be open to reconciliation, for we can never authentically love or forgive too much.
Sister Marcella Louise Wallowicz, CSFN
