The readings this weekend call for mutual responsibility to translate our love into action. In the first reading, the Prophet Ezekiel reminds us that we are responsible for one another. This is especially regarding counselling and warning others of the consequences of their actions to save them. It takes love to do this.

To say that we have a responsibility towards others is also to say that it has a consequence for us too. Hence, the Lord says: “I will hold you responsible.” We must speak out, counsel, and advise our brothers and sisters, children, friends, and relatives when they walk away from the right path. Being indifferent to the wrongs in the community, family and the world at large could be detrimental to the society in the future. It becomes our collaborative responsibility to be our brother’s keeper and to protect our society. This is what God is saying.

No doubt, this Christian responsibility is more challenging today as many Christians are afraid of infringing on other peoples’ private life, yet this is the time for a greater need for a collective responsibility to be there for one another if we need to build a better and future peaceful world. However, all our corrections should be done through love. This is why St. Paul says in the second reading: “Avoid getting into debt, except the debt of mutual love.” Through fraternal corrections, we can save lives and save families from both cultural, spiritual and moral decay. Love should guide our actions, for where love and charity abide, there God is found. We are not meant to live our faith alone. God wants us to support each other. May the love of God, which surpasses all human understanding, continue to reign in our hearts.

– Fr. Cyprian Ihedoro