From today’s Scripture: “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have won over your brother.” — Mt 18:15

When we have to correct people, it should not be harsh but should be done gently in the spirit of charity and concern. “Criticism, like rain, should be gentle enough to nourish a person’s growth without destroying the person’s roots,” says Frank Clark. Just as too much water destroys a plant, so does too much negative criticism destroy a person’s growth. Remember that concern for the other is the flower of charity.

Let us pray: Lord, you created us in your own image and likeness. Let us see the other as friend and advocate for his or her growth irrespective of our differences. Amen.

Today’s author is Father Charles Aketch, vocations director. He previously served as mission pastor of Holy Family parish in Macon County, Tennessee.

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