Matthew 18:15-17 NRSVue

¹⁵“If your brother or sister sins against you, go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone. If you are listened to, you have regained that one. ¹⁶But if you are not listened to, take one or two others along with you, so that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. ¹⁷If that person refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church, and if the offender refuses to listen even to the church, let such a one be to you as a gentile and a tax collector.

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Further reflection

Jesus does not foresee a life full of harmony and companionship, but acknowledges the need for forgiveness, patience and humility. I pray that I may live in a way that forgives freely and repents readily.

Matthew describes a ‘safety net’, a bottom line, an emergency drill. I can give thanks if life is usually less acrimonious. This itself is a sign that the Spirit of God is present and active; helping, healing, bringing wholeness.