SOCL, Sunday26B
- Admin
- Sep 27, 2024
- 2 min read
Sunday September 29, 2024
Do not stop him; whoever is not against us is for us.
See
Jesus knows, of course, that it is not our hands or our feet or our eyes which cause us to sin (cf. Mark 7:14-23). There is a certain sarcastic, even caustic wit in telling us to lop off extremities, as if it were that simple. Sometimes, humour is more effective—more disarming at any rate— than blunt exhortation (hence, dictators always fear the comedians). The point is not lost however: we need to get to the root of the matter and undergo conversion of heart, then of life and then of the whole person, limbs and all!
Listen
Reflect
(Mark 9:38-43, 45, 47-48)
-John objected to a person who was not in their group, casting out demons in Jesus’ name. Jesus himself had no problems with this. Jealousy can poison our outlook even when what is done by another is good. “S/he is invading my patch.” Perhaps you have seen, in yourself or in others, the negative effect of jealousy and the contrasting positive effect of being able to rejoice that good is being done, irrespective of who is the person doing it.
-In strong terms Jesus condemns those who are destructive of the life of others, particularly the “little ones.” Just as Jesus came that we might have life and have it to the full, we likewise are here to make a positive difference to others. What was it like for you when you were able to do something that was helpful to another?
-Rather dramatically Jesus tells us to cut off a hand, or tear out an eye, rather than harm another. It is not to be taken literally but it does mean that we should not be casual about our efforts to live a good life. When have you experienced the benefits of an element of seriousness in your approach to life?
Pray
Pour out your Spirit, O God, over all the world to inspire every heart with knowledge and love of you. Grant that we who confess Jesus as Lord may shun whatever is contrary to this faith and give witness to your love that has saved us in Christ, for he lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.
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