Pastor’s Corner for the Twenty First Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B, by Fr. Russell Pollitt SJ
Confrontation as growth… or imprisonment
How often are we pushed or nudged into a space of growth?
Regrettably, the art of good confrontation is a rare find in our modern world. While there is no shortage of confrontation, it often takes on forms so toxic that it either drives people away or ensnares them in its toxicity, making them prisoners of the confrontation.
On the other hand, think of all those times in your life when you were unsure you could give a presentation, run a 5k race, read scripture in front of everyone at church, deliver the baby, pass the exam, swim the whole length of the pool, or speak up for yourself; and someone pushes you to gather up your strength, and so you give it a go.
Sometimes, when we wouldn’t have tried on our own, we need some confrontation and direct pressure to move forward.
Perhaps that is what Jesus was doing in this weekend’s Gospel. After the disciples complained that following Jesus was so hard that they didn’t understand why anyone would do it, Jesus said, “Does this shock you?” Jesus laid it out for them and said that he’s got “Spirit and life,” which is the most important thing of all. Many of his followers left and gave it all up. It was hard, as they were confronted with the truth about him.
However, for those who stayed, it solidified their dedication to Jesus, who has “the words of eternal life.” It made them come to terms with the fear of the difficulty: that it was worth it.
Life, following Jesus, provided meaning and growth, even when it was hard. Notice that Jesus doesn’t chase after the people who left – or condemn (judge) them! He lets them go on their own accord.
Jesus does not pretend that following him will be easy – to boost his numbers. He knows what he is offering will inspire and require growth in the most important ways, and he’s willing to be honest about that.
Notice how Peter reacts: “Master, to whom shall we go?” Peter knows that he is being stretched and will later be confronted about his commitment to Jesus. His confrontation around the fire when Jesus was arrested (and his denial) become moments when others confront him. He is also confronted by himself, his own heart. As painful as it is, thatmoment will become remarkable growth later. He will become the great preacher of the resurrection.
There are healthy and unhealthy confrontations… one leads to growth, and the other to imprisonment.
Reflect on your own life. When have you been confronted with a situation that pushed you to grow in faith, hope, and love? When have you been the one to provide such a confrontation to support someone else’s growth in faith, hope, and love? How did these experiences bring you closer to the ‘Spirit and life’ that Jesus invites us into?