Ezek 33:7-9; Ps 94(95): 1-2. 6-9 r.7-8; Rom 13:8-10; Matt 18:15-20
Ezekiel says religious leaders have authority, but also daunting responsibility. Failing to instruct the people correctly will lead to the same fate as the sinners they have failed to guide wisely. After the fall of Jerusalem in 587 BC, Ezekiel promises hope for a future return to Jerusalem – but only if the people accept individual responsibility for sins and purify themselves of false gods.
The Psalm invites us to praise and worship the Lord daily, for he is our king and shepherd. We must not lose faith in God, as did the Israelites in their desert journey.
Paul’s advice to the Romans on Christian living continues: obey secular authorities, whose authority comes from God, and pay the taxes and respect that is their due. Above all “love your neighbour as yourself”.
The first reading, with the last verse of the Gospel reading, help us to understand the Gospel. “Where two or three meet in Jesus’ name”, Jesus will be in their midst – and by implication he will be guiding their decision-making, so their decisions will be in tune with God’s will. The Church’s awesome authority to include or exclude individuals on God’s behalf is not to be exercised carelessly, but only after due deliberation by the whole Christian community.
Psalm Response: O that today you would listen to his voice! “Harden not your hearts”.
(Ezek 33:7-9; Ps 94(95): 1-2. 6-9 r.7-8; Rom 13:8-10; Matt 18:15-20)