Connected

Matthew 18:15-20

Jesus said, "If another member of the church sins against you, go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone. If the member listens to you, you have regained that one. But if you are not listened to, take one or two others along with you, so that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If the member refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if the offender refuses to listen even to the church, let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Again, truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them."

Wherever we go...whatever we do...our thoughts, words, actions...even our gestures and glances...have some sort of impact upon somebody or something outside of our skin. Perhaps today you are experiencing a day of total isolation, inaction, and solitude...if so, save this reading for another day.

However, most likely you will connect with somebody today. When we move through the world, we have an impact upon everything and everyone around us, whether that is our intention or not. It is similar to the interconnections of a spider web. If even one fiber of the web is moved by an intruder, a whisper of wind or a speck of dust the entire web vibrates in some fashion. In the same way, what we do, say, or think spills outward from our particular life scene, reverberating elsewhere in the web of existence. Much of the time that spillage is positive...but what about when we do or say something that offends?

Today's scripture lesson reminds us of the way things work in community...especially when things aren't going as smooth as silk. Jesus counsels us to appreciate the connections we have with each other, and the wisdom of attending to the tender or strained relationships with words of truth, apology if necessary, and forgiveness. It is wise to attend to offenses in the presence of a compassionate listener. Sometimes that may literally be another person, especially when issues are complicated. However, even in what seems to be a trivial misunderstanding, we do well to remind each other first that Christ is with us, interceding in a spirit of love, truth, and peace.

When even two gather "in the name of Christ" there is a foundation of his presence that strengthens the bond of relationship. We stay grounded and focused upon the moment and the relationship at hand, caring for the each other with wisdom and Christ's peace. Everything radiating from us, then, has God's gracious love at its root.

Where are you going today? With whom will you be relating? How might you pay attention to the "others" within your web of connections?

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