From Eden to Calvary: Advent and the Triumph of God’s Plan. (Genesis 3:9-15,20)

 

Introduction : The Longing for Redemption

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Advent is a season of expectation and hope, a time to prepare our hearts for the coming of our Savior. Today, we turn to the first pages of Scripture, where we encounter the beginning of God’s plan to redeem humanity. In Genesis 3:15, often called the Protoevangelium or “First Gospel,” we find both judgment and salvation, a promise that reaches its fulfillment in Jesus Christ.

The Tragedy of the Fall

In the Garden of Eden, we witness humanity's first sin—a choice to listen to the voice of the serpent rather than the voice of God. Adam and Eve, who once walked with God in perfect harmony, now hide in fear and shame.

In verse 9, we read: “But the LORD God called to the man, 'Where are you?” The Hebrew word for “called” (qara, קָרָא) signifies an invitation rather than an interrogation. The question “Where are you?” (ayyekah, אַיֶּכָּה) is profoundly existential. God is not seeking Adam’s physical location but inviting him to acknowledge his spiritual and moral state.

God, in His mercy, is seeking reconciliation, to re-establish a broken relationship. Today, God addresses the same question to each of us: “Where am I on this second week of Advent?” Are we hiding, ashamed of our sins, afraid of being fully seen by God? Advent invites us to step out of the shadows and return to the God who never stops seeking us.

Adam and Eve’s Response

In verses 10–13, Adam admits his fear and nakedness, revealing his shame and alienation from God. The Hebrew word for naked ('erom, עֵרוֹם) contrasts with the innocence described in Genesis 2:25, where Adam and Eve were unashamed in their nakedness. Now, both shift blame, Adam blames Eve, and Eve blames the serpent. This reveals the fracturing of relationships, not only with God but also with each other and creation.

Since that tragic moment, human relationships continue to suffer, blame, distrust, and power struggles abound. Yet even amid this brokenness, God’s voice calls out, offering a path to healing.

The Promise in the Curse

In verse 14, the serpent (Satan’s instrument) is cursed above all creatures. Its crawling and dust-eating symbolize humiliation and subjugation. In verse 15, God announces a pivotal promise:

“I will put enmity between you and the woman, between your offspring and hers. He will strike at your head while you strike at his heel.”

The Hebrew word for “enmity” ('ebah, אֵיבָה) conveys intense hostility, a cosmic struggle between good and evil, between God’s purposes and the devil’s rebellion. In Ephesians 6:12 St. Paul says: “For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.”

Verse 15 of Genesis 3 points directly to Jesus Christ, born of the Virgin Mary, who triumphs over sin and death through His cross and resurrection. The serpent strikes at His heel, a foretelling of Christ’s suffering on the cross, but the Redeemer crushes the serpent’s head, securing victory for us.

Advent reminds us that the cradle in Bethlehem leads to the cross at Calvary, and through the cross, to the empty tomb.

A Call to Hope and Trust

Adam names his wife Eve, meaning “the mother of all the living,” expressing hope even amid sin and brokenness. God’s plans for humanity are always for restoration, not destruction.

In Christian theology, Mary, the mother of Jesus, is seen as the “woman” whose offspring defeats the serpent. Mary’s unique role as the bearer of the Redeemer underscores her cooperation in God’s plan. The Church Fathers also saw this “woman” as a collective image of God’s people, first Israel, then the Church, called to bring forth Christ into the world.

This Advent, we too are called to embrace hope. The world often feels like a garden overrun by the serpent's lies, ideologies, violence, division, and despair. But the promise of Genesis 3:15 assures us that the serpent’s power is not the final word. In Christ, we find life, light, and victory.

Our Role in the Redemption Story

The enmity between the serpent and the woman continues in our lives. Each of us is called to reject sin and stand firm in Christ. This means saying no to the serpent’s voice, the subtle temptations that draw us away from God, and saying “yes” to grace, to the voice of the Holy Spirit, following the examples of Jesus and Mary.

Mary, the new Eve, models this for us. Her “yes” to God opened the way for the Savior’s coming. As St. Paul reminds us in Ephesians 1:3-12, we were chosen before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before Him.

How is God calling you to say “yes” this Advent? Perhaps it is through forgiving someone who has hurt you, reaching out to someone in need, saying no to double live, or deepening your prayer life. Like Mary, let us open our hearts to God’s will, trusting that His plans are always for our good.

Conclusion: Awaiting the Full Victory

As we light the candles of the Advent wreath, let us remember that we live in the light of Christ’s victory, even as we await its full realization. The promise of Genesis 3:15 was fulfilled in Christ’s first coming and will be completed in His glorious return.

In this season of waiting, may we renew our hope, strengthen our faith, and prepare our hearts to welcome the Savior who comes to make all things new. Let us walk together in the footsteps of Mary, bearing Christ within us, and sharing in the triumph of His redemption.

Amen.

From Jealousy to Peace: The Journey of Humility in Christ’s Kingdom (Wisdom 2:12, 17-20. James 3:16-4:3. Mark 9:30-37).

In today’s readings, we are invited to reflect on the deeper meaning of humility, the power of service, and the importance of aligning ourselves with God's wisdom rather than the values of this world. These passages challenge us to move beyond self-centered ambitions and embrace a life of sacrificial love, even when that path may lead us to suffering, misunderstanding, or rejection. Let us open our hearts to be transformed by God’s wisdom, which always leads to life.

First Reading: Wisdom 2:12, 17-20

In the first reading, the author of Wisdom speaks of the persecution that befalls the righteous man. His goodness is a reproach to those who live in wickedness; his life becomes a silent witness against their selfishness and pride. The righteous man suffers, not because he has done wrong, but because his life of integrity threatens the comfort of those who live by the world’s standards.

This is a prophecy that speaks to Christ, the Righteous One, who would later be rejected and crucified. His pure and humble life unsettled those who clung to power, privilege, and self-importance. It reminds us that living a life of virtue, rooted in God, is not always easy. There will be times when standing up for what is right will bring us opposition or ridicule. The world often mocks the humble and exalts the proud. Yet, this reading calls us to trust that God will ultimately vindicate those who remain faithful, even in the face of suffering.

Reflection:

In our own lives, we too are called to stand for truth, justice, and love, even when it seems costly. Perhaps there are moments when our faith puts us at odds with the people around us—when honesty, forgiveness, or generosity make us seem out of place in a world driven by competition and self-interest. But like the righteous man in Wisdom, we are not alone. God is our strength and defender.

Second Reading: James 3:16-4:3

St. James speaks with piercing clarity about the root of discord and conflicts. He names it: jealousy, ambition, and desire for worldly pleasures. When these things take root in our hearts, they lead to disorder and every kind of evil. But there is another way: the way of God's wisdom, which is “pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits.”

Here, James contrasts two kinds of wisdom: the wisdom of the world, which leads to division, and the wisdom of God, which brings peace. Worldly wisdom is often about gaining power, being in control, and achieving success at any cost. But the wisdom from above is about humility, about putting others before ourselves, and seeking the common good rather than personal gain.

Reflection:

How often do we find ourselves caught in jealousy or self-seeking ambition? In moments of frustration or conflict, it’s easy to want to assert ourselves or prove our point. Yet, James reminds us that this path only leads to strife and disharmony. The true path to peace lies in humility, in being willing to listen, to yield, and to seek reconciliation rather than victory.

As we reflect on our own relationships—whether at home, at work, or in our communities—are we pursuing the kind of wisdom that brings peace? Or have we allowed ambition and jealousy to take root, creating divisions and tension?

Gospel: Mark 9:30-37

In the Gospel, we find the disciples arguing about who is the greatest. Jesus, knowing their hearts, turns the world’s idea of greatness upside down. “If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all.” And to illustrate this, He takes a child—one who, in that society, had no status or importance—and places the child in their midst.

Jesus teaches them that greatness is not about status, power, or recognition. True greatness is found in humble service. The greatest in God’s kingdom are not those who seek to be served, but those who serve others with selfless love. To welcome the least—the child, the poor, the vulnerable—is to welcome Christ Himself.

Reflection:

This teaching challenges our natural instincts. In a world that often celebrates power, success, and self-promotion, Jesus invites us to follow a different path: the path of humility and service. We are called to be like the child Jesus embraced, to live with simplicity and trust, and to serve others without seeking recognition or reward.

Who are the “little ones” in our midst that we are called to serve? Perhaps it’s the person who is overlooked at work, the neighbor who is struggling, or the friend who needs a listening ear. True discipleship is found in these small, often hidden acts of love.

Conclusion: Living with Humility and Service

The readings today call us to embrace a way of life that is radically different from the world's values. Wisdom invites us to live with integrity, even when it leads to hardship. James challenges us to root out jealousy and ambition, and to pursue the peace that comes from humility. And Jesus shows us that true greatness is found in service, in putting others before ourselves.

Let us ask for the grace to live according to God's wisdom, to be humble in heart, and to serve one another with love. In doing so, we follow in the footsteps of Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.

May our lives be a witness to the power of love, the beauty of humility, and the wisdom of service. Amen.🙏🙏🙏

One Heart, One Faith: The Divine Unity We Are Called to Share.

Today, we meditate on the priestly prayer of Jesus for all His followers (Cfr. John 17:20-26. This prayer reveals to us the heart of Jesus. Whoever reads and meditates on this prayer can enter into a heart-to-heart conversation with Jesus. St John invites us to enter into the intimate prayer of Jesus as He stands on the threshold of His Passion, praying not only for His disciples but for all who would come to believe in Him through their message. This passage reveals the profound desire of Christ for His followers to experience a unity that reflects the very nature of the relationship between Him and the Father, a unity so deep, so inseparable, that it becomes the bedrock of our witness to the world.

Jesus prays, “Father, just as you are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” Here, we see the heart of Christ longing for a unity among believers that is not superficial or based merely on shared beliefs, but one that is rooted in the divine love that binds the Father and the Son. This unity is a testimony, a living, breathing proclamation of the truth of who Jesus is. When Christians are united in love, the world sees the reality of Christ's mission; they come to "know" and "believe" in the love that sent Him.

Yet, many of us find ourselves grappling with divisions, misunderstandings, and a lack of unity within the Body of Christ. These struggles often stem from our human frailty, our tendency to prioritize our differences over the love that unites us. But Jesus' prayer reminds us that the love of the Father, which flows through the Son to us, has the power to overcome these barriers. This divine love is not a mere sentiment but an active force that calls us to be "one," as Jesus and the Father are one.

The unity Jesus prays for is not uniformity but a harmony of diversity, where each member of the Body of Christ brings their unique gifts and perspectives, contributing to the wholeness of the Church. In this unity, we find strength; in our love for one another, we find the power to witness to the world.

The call to unity is also a call to humility, to love one another as Christ has loved us, to seek reconciliation where there is division, and to prioritize the mission of the Gospel over our personal preferences. This is not an easy task, especially when faced with the myriad of problems that threaten to divide us. But it is precisely in these struggles that our unity becomes a powerful witness to the world, a sign that the love of God is at work in us, making us one, just as the Father and the Son are one.

As we reflect on this passage, let us ask ourselves: How can we, as followers of Christ, embody the unity for which He prayed? How can we love one another in a way that shows the world that we truly “know” the Father, that we truly “believe” in the Son? May the prayer of Jesus in John 17 inspire us to seek the unity that reflects the very heart of God, so that the world may see and believe in the One who sent Him.

De l'Humilité à la Gloire : l'Assomption de Notre Mère la Vierge Marie et Notre Destin Céleste.

 

Aujourd'hui, alors que nous célébrons la fête de l'Assomption de la Bienheureuse Vierge Marie, nous nous réunissons pour contempler l'un des mystères les plus profonds de notre foi : l'assomption glorieuse de la très Sainte Vierge Marie au ciel. Cette fête est une célébration non seulement du rôle unique de Marie dans l'histoire du salut, mais aussi de l'espérance et de la promesse qui attendent tous ceux qui suivent le Christ. En réfléchissant sur les Écritures, en particulier Apocalypse 12 :1-10 et Luc 1 :39-58, nous sommes invités à entrer plus profondément dans le mystère de la vie de Marie et de sa destinée éternelle.

Apocalypse 12 : 1-10 : La femme vêtue de soleil

Dans le livre de l’Apocalypse, nous rencontrons une vision puissante et symbolique : « Un grand signe apparut dans le ciel, une femme vêtue du soleil, ayant la lune sous ses pieds, et sur sa tête une couronne de douze étoiles » (Apocalypse 12. :1). Cette image de la femme est souvent comprise par l'Église comme représentant Marie, la Mère de Dieu, ainsi que l'Église elle-même.

Marie, vêtue du soleil, reflète le rayonnement de la gloire de Dieu. Elle est la Femme pleine de grâce, remplie du Saint-Esprit. Sa couronne de douze étoiles signifie sa royauté et son rôle de Mère de l'Église, guidant et protégeant les fidèles. La bataille entre la femme et le dragon, représentant les forces du mal, nous rappelle la lutte cosmique entre le bien et le mal, bataille à laquelle Marie participe par son obéissance à Dieu et son rôle dans la naissance du Sauveur. Avec elle et à travers elle Dieu nous donne la victoire en Jésus Christ. Elle a accompli fidèlement cette mission divine parce qu'elle était très humble et totalement obéissante à la volonté de Dieu. Et en elle, Jésus a accompli sa promesse contenue dans Jean 12 :26. Marie n'est pas seulement avec son fils Jésus, mais avec la Sainte Trinité et Dieu l'honore d’une façon unique.

L'assomption de Marie au ciel est l'accomplissement de la vision révélée. Dans son assomption, nous voyons la victoire de la grâce sur le péché, de la vie sur la mort. La vie de Marie a été celle d'un abandon total à la volonté de Dieu, et son assomption est le couronnement de cette vie, un témoignage de la victoire de l'amour et de la miséricorde de Dieu. Lorsque Marie est élevée au Ciel, elle devient pour nous tous un signe d’espérance, un rappel que le Ciel est notre véritable demeure et que nos vies aussi sont destinées à la gloire si nous restons fidèles à Dieu.

Le Magnificat : un chant de louange et d'humilité Luc 1 : 39-58.

Dans l'Évangile de Luc, nous avons un autre aperçu du cœur de Marie à travers sa rencontre avec sa cousine Élisabeth et son hymne de louange ultérieur, le Magnificat. Lorsque Marie rend visite à Elisabeth, Elisabeth, remplie du Saint- Esprit, s'exclame : «Tu es bénie entre les femmes, et béni est le fruit de tes entrailles! » (Luc 1:42). Par la bouche d'Élisabeth, Dieu confirme à Marie que le fils en son sein est unique ; Il est le Fils du Dieu Très-Haut. La réponse de Marie est une profonde humilité et louange : « Mon âme exalte le Seigneur et mon esprit se réjouit en Dieu mon Sauveur» (Luc 1 : 46-47). Ainsi, elle nous enseigne l’importance de la gratitude : être toujours reconnaissant envers Dieu pour son amour, sa fidélité et son salut.

Le Magnificat de Marie est un chant de foi profonde et de confiance dans les promesses de Dieu. Elle reconnaît sa petitesse et la grandeur de Dieu, reconnaissant que toutes les bénédictions de sa vie viennent de Dieu. Son humilité et sa foi sont les qualités qui ont fait d'elle le vase parfait pour le plan de salut de Dieu. Le Magnificat parle aussi de la justice de Dieu, comment Il « a dispersé les orgueilleux dans les pensées de leurs cœurs » et « a élevé les humbles » (Luc 1 : 51-52).

Alors que nous réfléchissons à la solennité d'aujourd'hui, nous nous rappelons que l'assomption de Marie au ciel est l'élévation ultime des humbles. Sa vie a été marquée par l'humilité, le service et l'abandon total à Dieu. Dans son assomption, Dieu honore son humilité et sa fidélité, élevant son corps et son âme à la gloire du Ciel. Le Magnificat de Marie devient non seulement un chant de sa vie mais un chant pour nous tous qui nous efforçons de vivre dans l'humilité et la foi. C’est un rappel que Dieu exalte ceux qui sont humbles et que la vraie grandeur se trouve dans le service de Dieu avec un cœur humble.

Un appel à imiter Marie

La fête d'aujourd'hui ne consiste pas seulement à honorer Marie ; c'est aussi une invitation pour nous à suivre son exemple. L'assomption de Marie au ciel nous rappelle la destinée éternelle qui attend tous ceux qui sont fidèles à Dieu. Nous sommes appelés à vivre notre vie avec la même humilité, la même foi et la même confiance dont Marie a fait preuve.

En honorant Marie, cherchons aussi à l’imiter. Efforçons-nous d'être humbles dans notre vie quotidienne, en faisant confiance au plan de Dieu pour nous, même lorsque nous ne le comprenons pas pleinement. Louons Dieu pour ses bénédictions et reconnaissons que toutes les bonnes choses viennent de lui. Et gardons l’espérance que, comme Marie, nous serons nous aussi ressuscités pour partager la gloire du Ciel.

Marie, élevée au Ciel, priez pour nous, afin que nous puissions vivre une vie digne des promesses du Christ et vous rejoindre un jour dans la joie éternelle du Ciel. Amen.🙏🙏🙏

 

 

 

 

From Humility to Glory: The Assumption of Mother Mary and Our Heavenly Call

Today, as we celebrate the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we gather to contemplate one of the most profound mysteries of our faith: Mary’s glorious assumption into Heaven. This feast is a celebration not only of Mary’s unique role in salvation history but also of the hope and promise that awaits all who follow Christ. As we reflect on the Scriptures, particularly Revelation 12:1-10 and Luke 1:39-58, we are invited to enter more deeply into the mystery of Mary’s life and her eternal destiny.

Revelation 12:1-10: The Woman Clothed with the Sun

In the book of Revelation, we encounter a powerful and symbolic vision: “A great sign appeared in the sky, a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars” (Revelation 12:1). This image of the woman is often understood by the Church to represent Mary, the Mother of God, as well as the Church itself.

Mary, clothed with the sun, reflects the radiance of God’s glory. She is the Woman full of grace, filled with the Holy Spirit.  Her crown of twelve stars signifies her queenship and her role as the Mother of the Church, guiding and protecting the faithful. The battle between the woman and the dragon, representing the forces of evil, reminds us of the cosmic struggle between good and evil, a battle that Mary participates in through her obedience to God and her role in bringing forth the Savior. She accomplished faithfully this divine mission because she was so humble and totally obedient to God’s will. And in her Jesus fulfilled His promise in John 12:26. Mary is not only with her son Jesus, but with the Holy Trinity and God honors her.

Mary’s assumption into Heaven is the fulfillment of the revelation vision. In her assumption, we see the victory of grace over sin, life over death. Mary’s life was one of complete surrender to God’s will, and her assumption is the crowning of that life, a testimony to the victory of God’s love and mercy. As Mary is taken up to Heaven, she becomes a sign of hope for all of us, a reminder that Heaven is our true home and that our lives, too, are destined for glory if we remain faithful to God.

The Magnificat: A Song of Praise and Humility Luke 1:39-58.

In the Gospel of Luke, we are given another glimpse into the heart of Mary through her encounter with her cousin Elizabeth and her subsequent hymn of praise, the Magnificat. When Mary visits Elizabeth, Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, exclaims, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!” (Luke 1:42). Through the mouth of Elizabeth, the God confirms to Mary that the son in her womb is unique; He is the Son of the most high God. Mary’s response is one of profound humility and praise: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior” (Luke 1:46-47). Thus, she teaches us the importance of gratitude: being always grateful to God for His Love, Faithfulness, and Salvation.

Mary’s Magnificat is a song of profound faith and trust in God’s promises. She recognizes her lowliness and God’s greatness, acknowledging that all the blessings in her life come from God. Her humility and faith are the qualities that made her the perfect vessel for God’s plan of salvation. The Magnificat also speaks of God’s justice, how He “has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts” and “has lifted up the lowly” (Luke 1:51-52).

As we reflect on today’s solemnity, we are reminded that Mary’s assumption into Heaven is the ultimate lifting up of the lowly. Her life was marked by humility, service, and total surrender to God. In her assumption, God honors her humility and faithfulness, raising her body and soul into the glory of Heaven. Mary’s Magnificat becomes not just a song of her life but a song for all of us who strive to live in humility and faith. It is a reminder that God exalts those who are lowly, and that true greatness is found in serving God with a humble heart.

A Call to Imitate Mary

Today’s feast is not just about honoring Mary; it is also an invitation for us to follow her example. Mary’s assumption into Heaven reminds us of the eternal destiny that awaits all who are faithful to God. We are called to live our lives with the same humility, faith, and trust that Mary demonstrated.

As we honor Mary, let us also seek to imitate her. Let us strive to be humble in our daily lives, trusting in God’s plan for us even when we do not fully understand it. Let us praise God for His blessings and recognize that all good things come from Him. And let us hold on to the hope that, like Mary, we too will be raised up to share in the glory of Heaven.

Mary, assumed into Heaven, pray for us, that we may live lives worthy of the promises of Christ and one day join you in the eternal joy of Heaven. Amen.🙏🙏🙏

 

 

 

Artisans de Paix et Bâtisseurs de Ponts : Refléter le Christ dans Nos Relations .

Chers frères et sœurs en Christ,

Dans l'Évangile d'aujourd'hui (Mt 18, 15-20), Jésus nous offre une profonde leçon sur la communauté chrétienne, le pardon et la puissance de l'unité en son nom. Ces versets peuvent sembler, à première vue, être de simples conseils pratiques sur la résolution des conflits. Mais quand nous regardons plus profondément, nous constatons qu’ils touchent le cœur même de ce que signifie vivre en tant que disciples de Jésus.

Jésus commence par nous enseigner l’importance de se confronter avec amour lorsque l’on a été offensé. Lorsqu’un frère ou une sœur trébuche, notre instinct peut être de prendre nos distances, de pointer du doigt, de médire  ou de  humilier l’autre. Jésus enseigne que nous devrions plutôt rechercher la réconciliation. Nous sommes appelés à être une communauté marquée par la grâce et non par le jugement.

Jésus nous invite à un chemin différent. Il nous exhorte à approcher la personne égarée en privé, avec un cœur plein d’amour et de sollicitude. Il s'agit de restaurer et de sauver notre frère ou notre sœur égaré, en le ramenant dans la chaleur de la communion fraternelle. Cette approche intime respecte la dignité de l'autre et préserve la relation. Cela reflète la patience et la grâce que le Christ accorde à chacun de nous. Lorsque nous abordons nos frères et sœurs de cette manière, nous ne nous contentons pas de suivre un ensemble de règles ; nous vivons l'Évangile de manière réelle et tangible.

Si la conversation privée n’apporte pas de solution, Jésus nous conseille d’emmener une ou deux autres personnes avec nous. Cette étape ne consiste pas à se liguer contre l’autre, mais à inviter la sagesse et l’objectivité dans la situation. Il est donc de la plus haute importance de faire attention aux personnes que nous invitons à participer à la résolution du conflit. De préférence, nous devrions impliquer d’autres chrétiens faisant preuve de sagesse et de bonne moralité. De cette manière, nous pouvons garantir que la vérité soit respectée et que la réconciliation reste l’objectif, sans diffuser la faute des autres. De plus, la présence de témoins souligne également le sérieux de notre engagement à vivre en harmonie et en vérité.

Enfin, si la personne refuse toujours d'écouter, Jésus lui dit de « le dire à l'Église ». Cela révèle la profonde nature communautaire de notre foi. Nous ne sommes pas des individus isolés mais des membres du corps du Christ. Le bien-être de chacun affecte tous, et la communauté ecclésiale est à la fois un sanctuaire et un lieu de responsabilité.

Jésus nous appelle à nous soutenir les uns les autres dans l'amour, même lorsque cela est difficile, car nous sommes tous liés en Lui. Je crois qu'en tant que disciples de Jésus, nous devons vivre cette dimension communautaire de notre foi : ensemble, nous sommes plus forts ; mais divisés, nous sommes plus faibles. Pouvons-nous imaginer l’impact que les chrétiens pourraient avoir sur le monde et la société si nous étions unis en Christ ? Hélas, parfois, les chrétiens passent plus de temps à travailler les uns contre les autres, intentionnellement ou non.

Les derniers versets de l'Évangile d'aujourd'hui nous rappellent l'incroyable pouvoir que nous possédons en tant que communauté de croyants. Lorsque nous nous rassemblons en son nom, Jésus promet d'être avec nous. Il ne s’agit pas  d’une présence symbolique, mais bien réelle et vivante. Nos prières, nos efforts pour nous réconcilier, nos luttes pour pardonner ne sont pas seulement des efforts humains ; ils sont imprégnés de la présence divine du Christ lui-même.

L'Évangile d'aujourd'hui est enfin un appel à aimer avec courage, à pardonner généreusement et à rechercher l'unité avec persévérance. En tant que disciples de Jésus, nous sommes appelés à refléter son cœur dans toutes nos relations. Cela signifie affronter les actes répréhensibles avec amour, rechercher la réconciliation avec humilité et se tenir ensemble dans la prière et la foi.

Puissions-nous toujours nous rappeler que lorsque nous nous réunissons en son nom, que ce soit pour résoudre un conflit ou pour offrir une prière, Jésus est avec nous. Soyons une communauté où les blessés trouvent refuge, où les perdus sont accueillis et où l'amour prévaut sur tout le reste. Jésus nous guide, nous fortifie et remplit nos efforts de sa grâce. Soyons donc des artisans de paix, des bâtisseurs de ponts et des disciples fidèles qui, en toutes choses, nous efforçons d’apporter l’amour du Christ dans le monde. Que Dieu bénisse tous nos efforts pour être des artisans de paix.

 

Peacemakers and Bridge-Builders: Reflecting Christ in Our Relationships.

Dear  Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

In today’s Gospel, (Mt 18:15-20), Jesus offers us a profound lesson on Christian community, forgiveness, and the power of unity in His name. These verses may seem, at first glance, to be merely practical advice on conflict resolution. But when we look deeper, we find that they touch the very heart of what it means to live as disciples of Jesus.

Jesus begins by teaching us the importance of confronting one another with love when one has been wronged. When a brother or sister stumbles, our instinct might be to distance ourselves, to point fingers, to gossip or shaming the other. Jesus is teaching that we should rather seek reconciliation. We are called to be a community marked by grace, not judgment.

Jesus invites us to a different path. He urges us to approach the erring one privately, with a heart full of love and concern. It is about restoration and salvation of our erring brother or sister, drawing him or her back into the warmth of fellowship. This intimate approach respects the dignity of the other and preserves the relationship. It reflects the patience and grace that Christ extends to each of us. When we approach our brothers and sisters in this way, we are not just following a set of rules; we are living out the gospel in real and tangible ways

If the private conversation does not bring resolution, Jesus advises us to take one or two others along. This step is not to gang up on the person, but to invite wisdom and objectivity into the situation. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to be careful whom we invite into the conflict resolution. Preferably, we should involve other Christians with wisdom and good character.  In this way, we can ensure that truth is upheld, and reconciliation remains the goal, not broadcasting the fault of others. Moreover, the presence of witnesses also emphasizes the seriousness of our commitment to living in harmony and truth.

Finally, if the person still refuses to listen, Jesus says to "tell it to the church." This reveals the deep communal nature of our faith. We are not isolated individuals but members of the body of Christ. The well-being of one affects all, and the church community is both a sanctuary and a place of accountability.

Jesus calls us to uphold each other in love, even when it is difficult, because we are all bound together in Him. I believe that, as disciples of Jesus, we need to live out this communal dimension of our faith: together, we are stronger; but divided, we are weaker.  Can we imagine the impact Christians could have on the world and society if we were united in Christ? Alas, sometimes, Christians spend more time working against each other, intentionally and unintentionally.

The final verses of today’s Gospel remind us of the incredible power we have as a community of believers. When we gather in His name, Jesus promises to be with us. This is not just a symbolic presence, but a real and living one. Our prayers, our efforts to reconcile, our struggles to forgive, are not just human endeavors; they are imbued with the divine presence of Christ Himself.

Today’s Gospel is finally a call to love courageously, to forgive generously, and to seek unity with perseverance. As disciples of Jesus, we are called to reflect His heart in all our relationships. This means confronting wrongdoing with love, seeking reconciliation with humility, and standing together in prayer and faith.

May we always remember that when we gather in His name, whether to resolve a conflict or to offer a prayer, Jesus is with us.  Let us be a community where the wounded find refuge, where the lost are welcomed back, and where love prevails over all else. He guides us, strengthens us, and fills our efforts with His grace. Let us, therefore, be peacemakers, bridge-builders, and faithful disciples who, in all things, strive to bring the love of Christ into the world. May God bless all our effort to be peacemakers.🙏🙏🙏