Wednesday August 13th: Mending bridges

“…between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother.”

Matthew 18:15-20

In today’s Gospel we have a model of how to treat with those who have hurt us. The first step is to address it one-on-one before putting them on blast on social media. I find this such an important lesson in preserving human relationships, as so many friendships, marriages, families have been broken because steps were not taken to address issues head on, and in love. This important step should not only be considered when we have been wronged but also when we are wrongdoers.

Discipleship is about human relationships, and we must learn to have the difficult conversations rooted in the love of Christ. Of course, it is not an easy thing to do, and it calls for a posture of humility. I believe that it is pride that gets in the way of making the first move and reaching an agreement by deciding to forgive or ask for forgiveness.

Lord, give me the courage to be guided by the Holy Spirit not only to face my faults but to also mend bridges.