Tuesday, June 18, 2024  

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Today's Scripture
Matthew 18:15–20

“If another member of the church sins against you, go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone. If the member listens to you, you have regained that one. But 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. If the member 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. Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Again, truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.” (NRSV)

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Reflection

Matthew 18:15–20 offers profound and psychologically healthy directives on living harmoniously within a community of shared faith. Based on my own life experience and forty years of listening, as a clinical psychologist, to people’s stories, I can attest it is not the way of least resistance to be direct and honest in our important relationships when there are disagreements and grievances. It is harder and takes courage to preserve everyone’s dignity, stay relational, and love well. It’s unfortunate, yet often the case, that it is easier to gossip, which only serves to fracture relationships further and undermine the unity of the community.

The directive to bring in one or two others if the initial private conversation does not resolve the issue underscores the need for accountability and impartiality. This step is not about ganging up on the individual but about ensuring fairness and seeking a balanced resolution. If the matter still remains unresolved, bringing it before the entire community emphasizes the collective responsibility to maintain harmony and integrity within the group.

Verse 20 serves as a powerful reassurance: “For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.” This promise assures us that when we strive to be in right relationship with each other in our faith communities, even in the midst of differences and conflict, God will be present with us. Our efforts to deal with differences in a healthy and dignity-preserving way, while difficult, are supported and sustained by God’s grace.

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Prayer
Loving God, thank you for the many blessings that are ours because we are in community with others. Grant us the courage and patience to manage our differences with love and a true desire for reconciliation. Help us to avoid gossip and slander. Instead may we choose honest and compassionate dialogue. We trust in your promise to be with us, guiding and sustaining us through every challenge. Amen.

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Written by Thomas Schemper, Director, Replogle Center for Counseling and Well-Being

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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