HOW TO WIN A STRAYED BROTHER

August 13, 2025 Wednesday within the 19th week in Ordinary Time Year C Matthew 18:15–20 Three practical steps to restore a brother who has strayed (3P’s) 1. Do it in PRIVATE When a brother or sister in faith has strayed or caused offense, the first step is to approach them quietly, away from public eyes and ears. Correction should never be about humiliation but about healing. By keeping it private, we preserve the dignity of the person and create a safe space for honesty and openness. This is what Jesus teaches — go directly, speak gently, and let the spirit of charity and concern guide your words. Sometimes, a single heartfelt, private conversation can begin the journey of reconciliation. Frank Clark once said: “Criticism like rain should be gentle enough to nourish man’s growth without destroying his roots.” 2. Seek a PARTNER If the private conversation does not bear fruit, Jesus calls us to bring along one or two witnesses (Matthew 18:16). This is not to gang up on the person but to introduce another perspective, another voice of love and truth. A partner helps mediate with patience and fairness. It reminds us that we are responsible for one another in the Body of Christ. Our task is never to condemn but to be compassionate, journeying with them in hope toward restoration. 3. Bring it to the PUBLIC If both private and partnered efforts fail, Jesus says to tell it to the Church. This step involves the wider community in the work of healing. In the public setting of the faith community, we can seek the wisdom, prayer, and collective support of others. The goal remains the same: not punishment, but restoration. The Church becomes the family that calls the erring member back home. NB: If the 3P’s don’t work, bring it to your PRAYERS In the end, some hearts change slowly. If our human efforts reach their limit, we place the person completely into God’s hands. Prayer is where our compassion becomes intercession — lifting the brother or sister to the Lord who alone can touch and transform hearts. As we pray, we also ask God to keep our own hearts free from resentment and filled with His peace. Jesus promises, “Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” I hold onto this whenever I enter difficult conversations. I remind myself that I am not walking into that moment alone. Christ is there — guiding my words, softening hearts, and turning a painful situation into a moment of grace. And each time I choose the path of reconciliation, I’m not just restoring peace with a brother or sister — I’m stepping into the presence of the One who first reconciled me to God. Blessings Fr. Jhack