23rd Week in Ordinary Times : Sunday, 6th September 2026

The presence of Jesus in the community is highlighted in today’s Gospel message. In caring for and challenging the offending community member, in gathering together in His name, the Lord is present. In many ways, we are keepers (or guardians) of our sisters and brothers. We have social responsibility in the family and in the neighbourhood. We have a responsibility for each other, for the common good.

Jesus speaks about the need, at times, to confront someone over a fault – not harshly, but with love. He sees this as part of the responsibility we bear for one another: to guide and encourage each other in living rightly. This call must be balanced with what Jesus says elsewhere – before we try to remove the speck from someone else’s eye, we should first take the plank out of our own.

This passage also provides a process that works to mend relationships rather than perpetuate hatred. This aligns with the idea of forgiving those who have wronged us, promoting forgiveness as a way to overcome hatred. Indeed, this reflects the broader concept of social justice. It emphasises the importance of resolving conflicts to maintain harmony and promote justice among individuals in the community.

In this resolution process, we are called to look beyond our own selves and to move towards Jesus’ greater calling to assist others. We are reminded whenever two or more are gathered together in His name, there is He in their midst.

PRAYER Lord Jesus, be with us in our community.