We often find ourselves, the many, watching and waiting, eager for something to happen so that we can indulge in gossip. I believe this tendency arises from our fallen nature, as human beings often feel the need to justify our lives by perceiving ourselves as better than others. We try to validate our worth by highlighting the flaws in others’ actions or lack of action, and we tell ourselves and others, “We do not do what they do; we are not like them.” In doing so, we attempt to elevate ourselves while unfairly judging our brothers and sisters without fair consideration.

Do we realize that our words can unjustly alter someone’s perception of our brother? With our words, we can inflict great harm on charity and potentially cause significant damage to those in need of our support. We may call ourselves “better”, but are we truly? Our Lord knows our minds and hearts.

“These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me; in vain do they worship me.” (Mark 7:6-7)

With our words and actions, we risk the salvation of souls. Furthermore, we must cease gossiping and bring this to confession, humbly asking for forgiveness. Let us turn to our Eucharistic Lord for transformation, seeking His help to change our minds and hearts so that, in humility, we may recognize our own fallen nature and strive to become better people. With His help, we can do better.

“Fix your heart on our Lord. Rest assured that He is there within you, contemplating your struggles and preparing to reward them.” (Saint Peter Julian Eymard, Letter to Mrs. Franchet – March 21, 1851 – (CO 25: II, 287)

As we learn to do better ourselves, let us, with God’s help, also help our brethren to do better themselves.

Let us pray:

Lord, help us to accept Your commandments. Let us grow in humility and learn to align our minds and hearts perfectly with Your charity. Amen.