I was listening to Jeff Cavins this morning give his reflection on the Gospel reading for today. He asked the question, “Would you rather give correction or receive correction?”
Uh, easy. Give it.
And I think most all of us would say the same thing.
My husband is in the military, as you know, and he has done many feedback sessions with his commanders throughout the years. They are pretty standard for military to do.
My husband is always frustrated by them because he usually comes in, sits down, and the commander tells him nothing constructive. It’s always, “Yep, so, you’re doing good. Carry on.”
My husband will always ask, “There’s nothing I need to work on?”
Usually, the commander will stumble around and offer nothing.
To me, that sounds wonderful; all praise, no correction.
But, my husband says, “Well, Amy, I’m not perfect. How am I supposed to become a better leader if no one will tell me what I need to work on?”
Okay, you got me. That’s true.
It’s the same with being a Christian. If we refuse any correction, we will never get better.
We must remember that not only should we accept constructive criticism from our loved ones, but, also, the Church. Her teachings are Christ’s teachings and they aren’t up for debate.
The Church’s teachings are meant to correct our lives to live according to God’s Will, Catholic Pilgrims. We must never suggest that the Church correct herself to our will.
Have a blessed Wednesday.
*St. Polycarp’s Catholic Church: Izmir, Turkey.
