Daily Gospel Reflection for August 14, 2024

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

“I’m innocent I tell you! Just who are you to believe . . . me or your eyes?” It was a moment just about every parent faces. Walking in to discover something broken, missing, or awry and your child standing just a foot away. What is the truth and how do you get there when there is so much to be lost or gained in the handling of the situation?

This scripture passage, situated after Jesus’ parable of the lost sheep, is a reminder once again that each one of us is valued and not to be so easily discarded. When conflicts and disagreements arise, we are shown our responsibility as Christians to lead one another in truth but to do so in a loving way. And here is where the significance of praying about the situation (v. 19-20), asking for guidance and assistance to open hearts. is so essential! The manner that we go about correcting error or sin could also be the cause of even greater injury. Thus, gathering one or two others allows us to look at the bigger picture and helps us to push aside self-interests to find the way forward. The path, which usually lies somewhere in between differing perspectives, underscores the importance of listening to others with discernment.

Contrary to what our natural inclination might be, these discussions, Jesus illustrates, are not to be in hushed gossip but in honest, loving conversation with one another. Likewise, we might rather choose to not even have the conversation at all, which can result in fostering anger and resentment. Over time, this not only can create a divide within our community but within our very selves. While confrontation is rarely sought after, Jesus’ directives here in Matthew do provide a way for it to be both fruitful and redeeming.

Ponder:

How do I deal with conflicts or hurt from wrongs? What is holding me back from trying Jesus’ way?

Pray:

Lord, You never said that it would be easy, but today I come to You with this situation. Help me to make sense of what I feel, take responsibility for my part, and to have courage to speak truth with love.

Daily Gospel 2