Nougat 22

An icon in the global social scene died recently, and amidst the tributes was a scathing attack on the dead. It triggered various responses, good and bad. I’ll admit, I was close to being drawn into the drama, but I restrained myself. Whether dead or alive, we ought to be careful in our comments about others.

For what use is the comment to the deceased? And what use is our gossip to others if/when we haven’t confronted the guilty. Consider Today’s Holy Nougat

Matthew 18:15 NIV

[15] “If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.

Just Between Us Two

We see the issue. We recognize it is sin. Do we

A. compound the issue by going to others,

B. join in the gossip, or

C. seek the person out quietly?

All those and more are possible reactions. But the Jesus response is ‘C’. We have an obligation to speak privately with the person. No cameras, no publicity, no drama. Not for this initial conversation.

I’m not sure why we often find it easier to increase someone’s vulnerability by sharing their error with others rather than discreetly pointing it out. Jesus says, Not as a first step. Especially not for one whom we refer to as a member of the household of faith. If we’re still trying to figure out how it works, I’d say let’s look at the Golden Rule, Do into others as we’d have them do into us. So we ask ourselves, How would I prefer to be treated in a similar scenario?

And, having asked ourselves that question, we prayerfully consider the issue. We might ask for wisdom in determining when, where, and how to address the issue. When we have prayed, we will have discerned the best course of action. If we find we still have concerns, let’s go again to Jesus.

According to Jesus, this is a malice- free approach to correction/rebuke. It also keeps the person’s dignity in tact. May we be our siblings’ keeper, guarding dignity and saving pride in all our interactions.

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May all we seek be found in Christ