23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time – 10 September 2023

When we look back at history or indeed at the news any evening, we can quickly see that our world, both ancient and modern, is marked, even scarred because of war and conflict. Sadly, many still believe that power and control is right and attack is the best and first line of defence. Conflict however is not limited to the global stage. In our homes, families, workplaces and yes, even our local parish community, there is conflict because of arguments, misunderstandings and anger. Conflict is not new, in fact it is very human and natural and if dealt with properly, it can even be healthy. The worst thing that we can do is to ignore it. In today’s Gospel Jesus tells us not to avoid or cover up conflict but rather to deal with it head on!