In this weekend’s readings, we have Jesus telling us how to resolve conflict in the church. It is not easy when people who claim to follow the Prince of Peace end up fighting with one another. Sometimes that conflict comes from people straying from the great commandments that Jesus gave us. And sometimes this conflict comes from egos that get in the way.
We are called to try to resolve these conflicts in love. Not by gossiping and stabbing each other in the back. Rather we are called to discuss with the one who has offended what caused that offense. However, when they refuse to discuss these matters or to work to resolve them, we are told to take a witness with us from the church. If that doesn’t work, then we are to bring them before the whole church. Only then are we given permission to dismiss them from our midst.
Sadly, so many people find themselves on the receiving end of the cold shoulder or gossip because we allow our hurt or brokenness to speak louder than our love. Even I have made that mistake before. After all, we are called to forgive 70 times 7!
This all goes back to what Saint Paul says in his letter to the Romans. We are called to love our neighbor as ourselves. This is one of the greatest commandments given us by Jesus. Paul says that “love is the fulfillment of the law.” This means that if we show everyone love, we are completing the law! Love is all we need my friends.
Will you join me this week in living a life of Love?
Pax et Bonum,
Bishop Greer