Addressing a Change in Our Behavior

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I would like start my homily for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time with a very deep yet simple question: as individuals and as a community, what do we need in order to develop and progress? Do we even need development in areas like culture, economy, medicine, and sports? Maybe this is a question that is somewhat irrelevant, not to be taken seriously because change in the course of our world and mankind is woven into a part of our everyday existence. Change is not a new revelation. 500 years before the birth of Christ, the Greek philosopher Heraclitus said "Change alone is unchanging." There are some people love and even embrace change. And there are others who loathe it.

Whether we want change or not, the fact remains: change is an inevitable part of our lives.

Reacting to Change

I would like to ask the following: How do I, as an individual, and how do we, as a community, cope with change? How do I react to my surroundings, around those who observe me, who accompany me, and those who interact with me and my behavior? Alot can be said about the topic of change and communication. There are many posts and shares and likes on the various channels of communication and media. Sadly, however, boundaries are often crossed – people are publicly demeaned or oppressed or humiliated, sometimes to the point of their existence being censored. Today we call this Cancel Culture.

In short, how do we deal with conflicts, both big and small? How do we address our culture of disagreement and criticism?

Matthew's Gospel

Our Gospel text (Matthew 18:15-20) encourages us to take a closer look at our own actions and behavior, even though this is often difficult. To be honest, who enjoys being criticized or having their behavior or person questioned? As difficult as it might be to admit our mistakes, it is equally challenging to point out the mistakes of others, simply because we don't want to hurt their feelings. The other person might take it the wrong way which can lead to conflict. And along with it the fear of not being loved anymore. Therefore, there are various ways to handle difficult situations: active or passive defense, ignoring them to the point of suffocation, or facing the situation.

Jesus, who is firmly rooted in Jewish tradition, addresses a problem head on. The crucial first step is to address the injustice to the offender. Choosing the right moment, finding helpful words, and delivering them with the right tone are significant challenges.If, despite all efforts, the problems in question cannot be resolved, then witnesses should be brought in. If this approach also fails, then the matter should be brought before the community in a public setting. This speaks volumes about God and His innermost nature.

In our text - nothing is said about what sin has committed against the other. The act itself is not up for debate. Jesus is more interested in showing people how a community can succeed in saving the so-called offender by making them acknowledge their guilt, by reflecting, in repenting, and changing through improvement. For me, I am convinced that this can work if I respect the dignity, feelings and freedom of the other person. Or, to put it in another way, let me ask this: How do I as Father Kurt Schaller handle criticism when I get the feeling that someone wants to address my wrongdoing with respect and kindness?

The Criticism Mirror

Let’s be honest, it is difficult to accept criticism because it often hurts, as painful as it can be, it exposes our imperfections. But it is necessary especially in relation to our sisters or brothers. It is particularly important in the life of a Christian community. Every community, every family and in every individual's life there are dark and shady areas. Dark spots are life-hostile behaviors that harm both me and my neighbor. I may not be aware of them because they are hidden. When I correct a fellow human being, it can be an act of mutual love. Reflecting the actions and behavior of another is an act of love and it is our responsibility to one another.

Reconciliation: A Sacramental signof God's Saving Grace

Every person needs the opportunity to repent, to start over and try again. In the life of the Church, Jesus also gives us a special gift: the Sacrament of Reconciliation.In reconciliation, God takes us seriously and listens to what we say. It is not primarily about the nature of sin but it is an invitation from God to trust in His merciful love. His healing grace gives us strength and raises us up. God is always concerned with human life, joy, and fulfillment.

Responsibility for Each Other

That is why God sent prophets and judges. They were meant to lead the people back to God. They also show us that the prophet has a responsibility. We all have a responsibility for each other in the life of the Christian community. Dear friends, Let us grow with courage and joy as individuals and as a community in mutual trust so that the world can believe in the love and faithfulness of God.

Amen.