Fifteenth week in Ordinary Time
Micah 2: 1-56; Matthew 12: 14-21
How do we handle conflict? Fight? Or Flight?
Every one of us faces conflicts, challenges and tough times. Life has many distressing situations. The tough times, failures, and difficulties do not discriminate against people; they come to everyone. Expect more storms when you follow Jesus. Sometimes, people may plot deliberately against us. Prophet Micah says in today’s first reading that people plot, even lying in bed, to covet and confiscate all the inheritance. What is our response? Flee from the difficulties? Or Fight?
Jesus had opponents.
Jesus had to face severe religious and political opposition. He was called out of
mind, a friend of Beelzebul. The Pharisees and religious leaders plotted to kill
him. Some rejected him, a few mocked him and a few rejoiced at his fall. How did
Jesus handle his conflict situations? A lot to learn from him.
Decision a must: A
decision whether to fight or flee in a conflict situation is a must. An undecided
person is equal to an unsuccessful person. There are only two kinds of people;
one who is successful other who could not take the decision.
Fight quietly and persistently:
Jesus’ way is gentle, not crying aloud on the streets or to everyone about the
conflict. He does not break the bruised reed. He fights quietly and steadily until he achieves his goal. A quiet
and persistent fight takes us through the conflict. Empty vessels make
noise but do not produce music.
Focus on the goal of life: You will never be criticised by someone who does more than you; you will only be criticised by someone who is doing less than you. Jesus was criticised, and the Pharisees were plotting to kill him. As soon as Jesus realised their plan, he quietly moved from their sight, not out of fear or anger but to focus on the purpose for which he had come to the world. His time was too short to waste on unproductive things and people. He was full of gentleness and compassion; he went about healing and teaching. He focused on the goal of his life. He knew his goal well, and he concentrated on achieving it, come what may.
Never flee away:
A winner is just a loser who tried one more time. It is important to learn to
build in and through the rain. There are only two kinds of people in the world;
one took the risk, other found it very risky.
Our Takeaway
1. Life is a package, a package of joys and sorrow,
conflict and success, pricking and provoking.
2. A quiet and persistent fight takes us through the
conflict.
3. You will never be criticised by someone who does
more than you; you will only be criticised by someone who is doing less than
you. So, focus on the goal.
4. A winner is just a loser who tried one more time.
Learn to build in and through the rain.
Wilson SVD
Divine Word Missionary
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