The Courage to Correct

Sometimes loving someone means saying what they may not want to hear. It takes courage to correct someone who is doing wrong, especially when we fear hurting the relationship. Yet this Sunday’s readings remind us that true love does not simply remain silent but it cares enough to call another person back.

Hibla: The Message of the Readings

God makes us responsible for one another. Ezekiel is called to warn those who are turning away, while the Psalm urges us not to harden our hearts when God speaks. St. Paul reminds us that love seeks no harm for another, and Jesus teaches us how to correct someone who has sinned, not to shame or condemn them, but to win them back.

Hugot: Points to Ponder

We often choose between two extremes: saying nothing because we want to avoid conflict, or speaking harshly because we want to prove that we are right. But Jesus shows us another way. Correction can be an act of love when its purpose is restoration rather than punishment.

Perhaps someone has corrected us before and we resented them for it. Perhaps we have also been the person who needed someone to tell us the truth. God’s love does not abandon us when we go astray. Sometimes the most loving thing we can do is not to let someone continue on a path that is hurting them.

Hamon: The Challenge

This week, if someone you love is going down the wrong path, don’t immediately condemn them or talk about them to others. Pray first, then speak to them privately, gently, and honestly. And if someone lovingly corrects you, resist the urge to become defensive. Listen and ask: “Could God be calling me back through this person?”