If we truly love somebody, we want what is best for them. If we truly love, we offer our support when encouragement is needed, but we also confront and point out self-destructive behavior when we become aware of it. Ezekiel in today’s first reading (Ezekiel 33:7-9) recognizes his responsibility as a prophet to point out the sins of his people. He hopes they will repent and avoid punishment. But even if the situation seems hopeless, because the people are hard-hearted, he must try. Perhaps they will, and that would be for the best. Ezekiel’s warning wasn’t heeded, and he suffered for his message, but he was saved by God in the end. It is no different with us if we don’t warn our friends when we see them going astray. God will hold us responsible. So let us be good friends and neighbors and give gentle correction when it is needed.
- Fr. Carl
“We become what we love.”
~ St. Claire
