The first reading from Ezekiel 33 and the Gospel reading today are closely intertwined. They both speak of warning others of error. In Ezekiel 33, the Lord says that we have a responsibility to "dissuade the wicked from his way." "But if you warn the wicked, trying to turn him from his way, and he refuses to turn from his way, he shall die for his guilt, but you shall save yourself."
In the Gospel reading from Matthew 18, Jesus talks about what to do with "a brother who sins against you." If nothing works in correcting his error, "treat him as you would a Gentile or a tax collector."
There are plenty of opportunities to call out error these days. If you look back at the history of the Church, bold leaders have always called out heretics for their errors. We must be the same. So many are trying to put forth evil ideologies and will try to shame you if you speak out against them. But we must do just that, in a spirit of charity - for their souls and the souls of those they may fool into error.
Father, give us the holy boldness to always warn others of error, especially those that may jeopardize their souls. Amen.
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