The Good Shepherd, Prince of Peace, Bread of Life, Alpha and Omega... these are just a few of the phrases referring to Jesus Christ.  One of my favorites is Mediator because of Jesus’s role as mediator between God and mankind. 

Seeing Jesus as Mediator also gives me encouragement in my vocation of conflict resolution.  In today’s gospel from Matthew, Jesus teaches a simple model for conflict resolution.  He urges us to attempt to resolve the matter directly with the person with whom we are in conflict.  When this works out, it can be a very powerful and affirming experience for both people.  But as we know, it can be very difficult to approach someone with whom we disagree. 

Jesus goes on to give the sage advice of involving other people in the discussion to carefully listen to the perspectives in an effort to seek clarity.  Today, that person could be a good friend, a trusted boss or a professional mediator.  Unfortunately, we are often hesitant to involve others in a conflict as we (falsely) believe that not being able to work everything out ourselves is a sign of weakness.  How wonderful to hear that encouragement from Jesus to seek support in resolving our differences.  Yet, we must listen carefully to his words as Jesus wants us to take a prayerful stance when we approach the conflict.  This can be so difficult when we have been wounded by another and are fearful about the interaction.

Jesus is also a realist and knows that not all conflicts can be resolved.  He states that if the other person refuses to listen to you and to the mediators, then you should take the matter to the Church.  In secular matters this could be a hearing board or the court.  Let us challenge ourselves to listen to the wisdom of Jesus and not jump to this final step too quickly.  While it can initially feel more comfortable to take a conflict to higher authorities, if we prayerfully enter the dialogue with an open heart and compassion, we have created an opportunity for peace.

Experiencing conflict can be such a lonely experience, but Jesus reminds us that we do not need to face the challenge alone as he is with us.  He tells the disciples: “Again, amen, I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything for which they are to pray, it shall be granted to them by my heavenly Father. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them."

Today let us pray about the unresolved conflicts in our lives.  Let us ask Jesus for the grace to release old hurts and for the courage to confront matters that should be addressed.  Let us pray for the wisdom to seek out counsel and guidance from others in our lives.  And let us be prepared to be a witness for others as they strive for peace and reconciliation.
God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ and entreating to us the message of reconciliation.