Mark 9:38-43, 45, 47-48
Gospel according to Mark 9:38-43, 45, 47-48
At that time, John said to Jesus, "Teacher, we saw someone driving out demons in your name, and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow us." Jesus replied, "Do not prevent him. There is no one who performs a mighty deed in my name who can at the same time speak ill of me. For whoever is not against us is for us. Anyone who gives you a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ, Amen, I say to you, will surely not lose his reward. "Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him if a great millstone were put around his neck and he were thrown into the sea. If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life maimed than with two hands to go into Gehenna, into the unquenchable fire. And if your foot causes you to sin, cut if off. It is better for you to enter into life crippled than with two feet to be thrown into Gehenna. And if your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out. Better for you to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye than with two eyes to be thrown into Gehenna, where 'their worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched.'"
Reflections
Today’s readings begin with a lesson on tolerance, as illustrated by Jesus’ interactions with those who were marginalized in society. He rebukes John, who was trying to prevent a man who was not part of the group of followers from healing people. By willingly engaging with sinners, and with those considered unclean by the religious leaders of the time, Jesus exemplifies the true meaning of Christian love. He calls us to transcend our prejudices, and urges us to embrace and support those who are different from us. We are called to follow in Jesus’ footsteps by showing compassion and understanding toward others, regardless of their differing backgrounds.
Another key theme in today’s passage is that of humility. Through Jesus’ actions and words, He reflects the importance of a humble heart – One which is willing to serve rather than be served. Jesus’ humility attests to the true nature of greatness in the Kingdom of God, which is not measured by our power and status, but instead through our willingness to humble ourselves and serve others. We are challenged to let go of our worldly pride, and instead to accept our responsibilities with the heart of a servant.
The harsh words of Jesus emphasize the severity of sin – He makes it very clear that sins are not to be taken lightly. By sinning, the only thing we accomplish is to distance ourselves from God and from others. As such, we are commanded to cut off any part of our lives that separates us from Him. The shocking gravity with which Jesus addresses our sins is a humbling reminder of our desperate need for repentance. Jesus calls us to examine our lives through the lens of our conscience, to admit to where we fall short, and to humble ourselves such that we can seek God’s mercy and accept His forgiveness with absolute sincerity.
Another recurring theme in Jesus’ ministry is that of the protection of the vulnerable. We are called to defend and advocate for the most vulnerable and marginalized members of our society, just as Jesus cared for the weak and gathered the children to himself. Furthermore, Jesus reminds us to uphold the dignity of the person and to do our best to fulfill the needs of those around us. For as Jesus teaches us, by caring for the vulnerable, we are also brought closer to God’s love where we serve as instruments of His justice.
Today’s readings resonate deeply with the Catholic faith, offering deep insights into the values of tolerance, humility, the protection of the vulnerable, and the importance of repentance. By choosing to listen to the calling of Jesus, we receive a rich tapestry of lessons to help us on our spiritual journey. As we follow these teachings and incorporate them into our daily lives, we are invited to embody the love and grace of Jesus Christ in all that we do.