Commentary: 23rd OT A

Twenty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time, A



Ezekiel 33: 70-9

Psalm 95

Romans 13: 8-10

Matthew 18: 15-20



The readings have in common today the theme of fraternal correction and concern. The First Reading, from the book of the prophet Ezekiel, describes the prophet as having been “appointed watchman for the house of Israel.” This is an image familiar to people of the time: a sentry, posted in a high place, who warns of approaching danger. God’s charge to the prophet states that he has responsibility for delivering the message to the person concerned. Once the message has been delivered, it becomes that person’s responsibility, and no longer the prophet’s. The Responsorial Psalm echoes this by having as its refrain, “ If today you hear His voice, harden not your hearts!” The Gospel discusses the need for mutual interaction and correction, giving a sort of community flowchart for solving problems. The general topic of responsibility and discipline is not popular today (and perhaps never really was); nevertheless, it is evident from this Gospel passage that such discipline is integral to the apostolic teaching about the church.



On this subject of discipline, St. John Chrysostom says: “You will be doing everything for the glory of God if, when you leave this place, you make yourselves responsible for saving a brother or sister—not just by accusing and rebuking him or her, but also by advising and encouraging, and by pointing out the harm done by worldly amusement, and the profit and help that comes from Christian instruction. It is the Church’s pride and the Savior’s command, not to be concerned only about our own welfare, but about our neighbor’s, also.” (Homilia 6)



The in-course reading from Romans continues with more ethical exhortations, this time in reference to human relationships. Paul discusses the commandments that apply to interpersonal relationships (5,6, 7, and 9/10) and sums them up in the command from Leviticus, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Since love, then, cannot hurt another person, Paul says, “hence love is the fulfillment of the law.”



The Communion Antiphon for this Sunday is taken from the Gospel of the Day, and can be heard on the recording "Music for the Year of Matthew," sung by the Schola Cantorum of St. Peter's in the Loop, and published by The Liturgical Press (www.litpress.org)