today's other readings are Ez. 18: 21-28 and Psalm 130
In my 2nd parish I served in, perhaps the greatest issue I became aware of in the lives of my parishioners was not issues of the various forms of abuse, nor was it socio-economic issues. It was family issues. Siblings, relatives and parents who were no longer speaking to each other because of grudges, usually based on words that were said.
The saddest and most exasperating example of this occurred when I had a meeting with a man who came to see me to tell me about his estranged relationship with his brother that had been going on for 15 years. As I listened, it became apparent that it all stemmed from a family birthday gathering in which harsh words were exchanged between the two, and how they had never spoken since.
He shared how much this estrangement had deeply affected their parents, their spouses, their children and all potential family gatherings. It was so sad to hear.
Finally, he asked what could be done. So I shared my brilliant answer - apologize - you two need to apologize. No ifs, ands or buts. He looked at me and shouted, "I can't do that!" When I asked why, basically the issue came down to pride.
He left my office dissatisfied, and I felt terribly sad - sad for him, his brother, and all those other families that have been damaged by the same thing.
Today Jesus not only asks us, "Is it really worth it?", but more importantly, He reminds us that one who does so is putting their eternal salvation in peril. All because of a misguided and sinful sense of pride.
Is it really worth it?