Gospel

Mt 18:15-20

Jesus said to his disciples: "If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have won over your brother. If he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, so that  every fact may be established on the testimony of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell the Church. If he refuses to listen even to the Church, then treat him as you would a Gentile or a tax collector. Amen, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again, amen, I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything for which they are to pray, it shall be granted to them by my heavenly Father. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them."

Sermon

My brothers and sisters in Christ, today’s Gospel reading passage offers guidance on how to address conflicts and sins within our communities. Jesus teaches us the importance of forgiveness, reconciliation, and the power of gathering together in His name.

*The Process of Forgiveness:*

Jesus outlines a step-by-step approach to addressing sin and conflict:

1. Private conversation: Address the issue one-on-one, seeking understanding and resolution.

2. Involving witnesses: If the issue persists, bring one or two others to mediate and provide testimony.

3. Involving the Church: If the issue remains unresolved, bring it to the community for guidance and support.

*The Power of Community:*

Jesus emphasizes the significance of gathering together in His name. When we come together in prayer and agreement, He promises to be present among us. This collective power allows us to:

- Bind and loose: Make decisions and take actions that align with God's will.

- Pray with confidence: Knowing that our prayers will be answered when we agree and pray together.

*Conclusion:*

May we embrace Jesus' teachings on forgiveness, reconciliation, and community. May we approach conflicts with empathy and understanding, seeking resolution and healing. And may we recognize the power of gathering together in His name, knowing that He is always present among us. Amen.

*Reflection Questions:*

- How can I apply Jesus' steps for forgiveness in my own life?

- How can I support and involve my community in times of conflict or sin?

- How can I tap into the power of collective prayer and agreement?

Prayer

Let us pray: + In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holiness Spirit. Amen.

Almighty, merciful and loving God,

Thank you for the guidance you provide in addressing conflicts and sins within our communities. Help us to approach each situation with empathy and understanding, seeking resolution and healing.

Give us the courage to follow Jesus' steps for forgiveness: to address issues privately, involve witnesses when needed, and seek the guidance and support of our community.

May we recognize the power of gathering together in Jesus' name, knowing that He is always present among us. Help us to tap into this collective power, making decisions and taking actions that align with Your will.

Grant us confidence in our prayers, knowing that when we agree and pray together, You will answer us.

May we be instruments of forgiveness, reconciliation, and community, reflecting Your love and presence in our lives.

Amen.

Additional prayers:

- For those struggling with conflict or sin, may they find the strength to seek forgiveness and reconciliation.

- For our communities, may we support and uplift one another, reflecting the love and presence of Jesus.

- For the power of collective prayer, may we tap into its transformative potential, bringing about healing and resolution.

We ask this in the most holy name of Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

+ In the name of the Fsther, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you,

Rev. Fr. Jhimerson Maneclang,SCJ