Correcting others
Wednesday 19th week ordinary time
(Matthew 18:15-20)
In this times when an aggressive media usually pursue issues for expose, and use the formula “for the sake of truth,” there is the tendency to sacrifice privacy and good name. There is a tendency to glorify being “brutally frank” about issues as a virtue. However, Jesus’ admonition is clear and uncompromising; even in the worst of times when someone may have fallen into the lowest point of moral and spiritual life, correction should be first be done privately. This avoids unnecessary publicizing of private matters, and it also avoids giving unnecessary hurt to persons.
Deeper consideration of the teaching of Jesus makes us realize that Jesus is not simply teaching on correcting mistaken persons. Jesus is talking about true love and concern. True love and concern cannot afford to be silent and indifferent toward people in their weaknesses. Silence and refusal to be involved will not be a safe option, but we will actually be held accountable for the attitude as a “sin of omission.” This is an eye opener for us who live in a society where the culture of personal safety and individualism is becoming more and more basis of action.
(Matthew 18:15-20)
In this times when an aggressive media usually pursue issues for expose, and use the formula “for the sake of truth,” there is the tendency to sacrifice privacy and good name. There is a tendency to glorify being “brutally frank” about issues as a virtue. However, Jesus’ admonition is clear and uncompromising; even in the worst of times when someone may have fallen into the lowest point of moral and spiritual life, correction should be first be done privately. This avoids unnecessary publicizing of private matters, and it also avoids giving unnecessary hurt to persons.
Deeper consideration of the teaching of Jesus makes us realize that Jesus is not simply teaching on correcting mistaken persons. Jesus is talking about true love and concern. True love and concern cannot afford to be silent and indifferent toward people in their weaknesses. Silence and refusal to be involved will not be a safe option, but we will actually be held accountable for the attitude as a “sin of omission.” This is an eye opener for us who live in a society where the culture of personal safety and individualism is becoming more and more basis of action.
