Good morning, Good People,
May the Lord give you peace, health and happiness in the Holy Spirit. It is 13th August 2025. We celebrate the memorial of Saints Pontian, Pope and Hippolytus, Priest, Martyrs.
Are we making others independent or dependant?
We reflect on Deuteronomy 34:1-12 and the Gospel of Matthew 18:15-20.
We are all called to serve, while some of us are called to lead by serving. Some leaders emerge like a whirlwind and vanish like dust; others bubble up quickly, only to burst in noise. But a few are called to lead quietly, without recognition, serving in silence—like Moses, who sought the good of the people and tirelessly worked to connect them with God.
The resilience of a leader is seen in how they relate to God and radiate His love to others—in respect, compassion, and constant intercession for their safety, sanctity, and security. A good leader depends on the One who entrusted the leadership and helps people grow independent in every aspect of life.
“Never since has there arisen a prophet in Israel like Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face.” (Deut. 34:10)
Moses was called to lead God’s people to the Promised Land. With God’s help, he brought them to its border and prepared Joshua to succeed him. It must have been deeply moving for Moses to hear from God that he would not enter the land, but only see it from a mountain top.
Jesus calls us to fraternal accountability and transparency. Being responsible for others is never a license to suppress their dreams or impose our plans under the guise of care. Disagreement with our proposals should not lead us to exclude others from the community. When heart-to-heart and mind-to-mind conversations do not yield change, we must offer a safe, sacred space for people to grow at their own pace. We should not rush to correct others while ignoring our own brokenness. We are called to remember our state—not our status—as we guide others. Better not to wash another’s feet only to pour the water over them when they are unready.
Prayer bears fruit in an environment of unity, fraternity, and charity:
“If two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven.” (Mt. 18:19)
May the Lord bless you to be as gentle with others as you hope they will be with you. Have a peaceful day. God bless you.