Our reading today is Matthew 18:16
In the verse just before this Jesus taught, “If someone offends you, go to them in private and try to restore the relationship.” Today’s thought asks the follow-up question, “What do we do if they won’t listen at all?” To that question, Jesus answers,
“But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.”
I used to think the purpose of bringing two or three witnesses was mainly to prove that I confronted someone properly, so others would know I had done my part. Maybe that plays a role, but I’ve come to believe something else matters far more. We bring others along so we can see the whole truth. It may be that my brother didn’t listen because he had a side I never considered. When these friends join me, they may gently say, “Lonnie, I understand what you’re saying, but that’s not quite how it happened.” Their presence might help me see more both sides, even if the truth includes my own mistake.
I’m Lonnie Davis, and these are thoughts worth thinking.