We are called to correct

The Gospel today makes a very good argument for the importance of self correction and fraternal correction.

It speaks of self-correction. The Gospel seem to teach us that self-correction is the first step of fraternal evaluation. We cannot have the moral ascendency to correct if we do not have the audacity to rectify first our own. The Gospel exhorts us in such a manner that we must examine our way of life; examine and assess if we are becoming scandals for others. It is short of asking ourselves, Am I inspiring my fellow scholastics by my way of life? Is my presence a to this community making my brothers see goodness? Is my presence a Good News or just an ordinary presence? Is it a Good News or a Scandal?

We are exhorted by our first reading to seek integrity of heart. Integrity entails being inspiring and not being scandals; because we are to be pastors. If pastors, if seminarians lead others to scandal, God will hold us accountable.

The Gospel also talks about fraternal correction. The Gospel tells us that we have the moral obligation to fraternal correction. We must correct all wrongs in the name of moral obligation, and also by the virtue of Christian Charity, and to be prepared to forgive and love our debtors.

Forgiveness in itself is a scandal for the world because it is not common and it is unlikely. But forgiveness is a scandal because it is Good News, and not a common news. This is the essence of a Good New, to do something different in the name of moral obligation, and christian charity.

But all these virtues meant to aid us in correcting ourselves and others, be it moral obligation, Christian charity, or even values of community, forgiveness, and righteousness can only be genuine and could only be achieved in the eyes of faith. “We announce Christ crucified: a stumbling block (a scandal) for the Jews and foolishness for the gentiles.” (I Co 1:23).

Self-correction is hard. Self-examination is hard. Fraternal correction is hard because it could be an opening to miscalculations of intentions. But the Gospel today reminds us that when it is done in faith, it becomes genuine. CCC reminds us: the best moment to examine our conscience is always before the cross of the Lord. Because as our first reading tells us, God is our witness and observer of our hearts.