Joshua 3:7-11, 13-17 / Matthew 18:21 - 19:1
In life, there will always be changes.
So, changes are inevitable, but change makes us look deeper at ourselves and to reflect more about how we are responding to the change.
In the 1st reading, there were two significant changes – one was for Joshua, and the other for the Israelites.
Joshua is appointed by God to be the new leader for the Israelites, and his first task was to lead the Israelites into the promised land.
As for the Israelites, it was a change in identity and status.
They are no more wanderers in the desert but God’s People in the Promised Land.
The crossing of the river Jordan has changed their identity and status.
That also makes us reflect about the teaching of Jesus about forgiveness.
When we forgive others, we cross over the river of resentment and bitterness.
And we enter into the land of peace and joy, and we inherit the promises of Jesus.
So, let us respond to the changes in our lives positively and we will grow in the love of the Lord.