Homily on Luke 12:54-59 – Reconcile Before It Is Too Late (24-10-25)

A heartfelt reflection on Luke 12:54-59, noticing conflicts early, fostering reconciliation, and living wisely in family, work, and daily life through the teachings of Jesus. (24-10-25)

Praise be to Jesus Christ

There was a busy factory in a town, and many were working in the factory. One day, the management decided to change the work shifts for the betterment of the factory. But, hearing that, the workers began to worry, and some were very upset. It was because some of the workers had long journeys home, and others had children or elderly parents to care for. As a result, the new shifts felt impossible for many.

Tensions started to rise, and the union representatives called for a meeting. One worker, clearly upset, spoke out: “If this is not sorted today, the factory might even shut down, and everyone will suffer!” The management could have ignored them, or stuck to their plan and waited for the problem to explode. But they didn’t. Instead, they invited the union representative to talk. They listened carefully, asked questions, and tried to understand the worries. Together, they found a solution. It was not perfect for anyone, but it was fair enough to prevent disaster.

What could have become a big problem was solved simply because people noticed it early, cared, and acted. This is exactly what Jesus is teaching us in today’s Gospel. He says, “Settle matters quickly with your adversary while you are still on the way to court.” At first, it sounds like He is talking about lawyers and courts, but He is really talking about life itself—about the little conflicts that grow quietly in our homes, our workplaces, our schools, and even in our hearts. Every harsh word we leave unsaid, every resentment we keep inside, every pride that stops us from apologizing—these can grow. And if we wait too long, they can become storms.

Think about your own home for a moment. How many times has a small disagreement turned into a big fight? A harsh word with your spouse, a forgotten apology to a sibling, a silent resentment toward a parent—these are small at first, but if ignored, they grow heavy. Jesus is saying: don’t wait. Don’t let small things turn into big things. Act now.

Even in the Old Testament, God teaches the same wisdom. In the book of Ezekiel, God calls His people to turn back, to correct what is wrong, to make things right. God notices even the smallest acts of love and forgiveness. Even a tiny gesture matters.

Saint John Bosco understood this too. He worked with children who were angry, lost, or confused. Instead of punishing them, he would sit and listen. Sometimes he would simply say, “Let’s find a way together.” That small act often calmed anger and healed hurt. That is what reconciliation is—not big speeches or grand gestures, but noticing, listening, and acting with love.

Jesus is asking us today to examine our own lives. Are there misunderstandings we are ignoring? Words we should say but have not? Apologies we have kept inside? Anger we are holding on to? The longer we wait, the heavier these problems become. Acting quickly, speaking kindly, forgiving sincerely, and making peace—these small actions can change everything.

Every small act of reconciliation builds love, trust, and peace. Jesus calls us to notice, act, and restore harmony wherever it is needed. Do not wait for the storm to hit. Act now, with love, patience, and humility.

Jesus help me to solve all the issues instantly. Amen

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God Bless…