Ezekiel teaches wherever two or three are gathered in his name God is there. Jesus advises us when we have been offended we do better praying together.

Today’s gospel is an instance of Jesus speaking to the point when anyone feels another person has said or done something that has become a source of pain. Unfortunately, I suspect, most of us encounter these moments more than we would like. Jesus is very clear: go and tell the offender your feelings. Tell that person and that person alone!

I cannot tell you how many times in my many different assignments, a person who has been hurt by another’s remarks or actions has called together usually around a water fountain, in a coffee room or hallway his or her Supreme Court of friends or the offending person’s "enemies" to hear the details of the offending words or actions.

This is so contrary to the first suggestion Jesus puts forward. Secondly, if personal conversation does not work, he suggests gathering two or three people together to talk with you and the offender. And when that fails, bring the matter to a higher authority, a boss, a manager, a counselor. All of these failing, then Jesus hits the nail on the head with a hammer blow: treat that person like an outsider! Harsh words from the man of love.

We have, all of us, I am sure, been through similar moments. But how infrequent is the easiest solution used: meeting the person after a day or two of calming the nerves!

We should never forget that through a little quiet with the Lord and we are empowered by God. His power then goes out from us wherever we go or to whomever we speak.

Returning to the offender in most cases makes clear your respect for his or her dignity as a person, as a child of God. Done with a sense of calm and prayer, the opportunity for genuine reconciliation has been made real. Going to the Supreme Court of friends in most instances undermines reconciliation.