Conflicts

The early Church was composed of a number of very small communities, so conflicts among members became known very quickly and had to be dealt with through forgiveness and reconciliation to keep the community together and show that the community is a sign of God’s love and forgiveness.

When a community works together to settle disputes, Christ is in our midst working to achieve the same goals. That’s the real meaning of “where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” Jesus’ work is primarily one of reconciliation, of uniting the community, of restoring bonds broken by sin.

If we look at the broader implications of Jesus’ teaching on confrontation and reconciliation within a community, we can see application if a whole race if sinned against, if the poor are being ignored, if people’s rights are being denied, if women’s voices are ignored, if the need of young people aren’t being addressed. Reconciliation involves addressing any issues that permit or promote a fracturing of the unity to which we are all called by virtue of our faith in Christ.

Only love can change hearts, so show love no matter what. We can be a sign of God’s love and compassion to those we meet. That is our call as followers of Jesus, who is in our midst whenever we come together in his name.

“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.” (Matthew 18:19)