Reflection on the Gospel Reading of the day: Mark 9:38-43, 45, 47-48
My reflection theme: Radical Commitment to Avoid Sin
Jesus warns against causing others to sin and urges us to eliminate anything that leads us astray, even if it means radical sacrifices. The Kingdom of God is worth any cost.
For example: In the digital age, someone might give up social media to avoid temptations and distractions, prioritizing spiritual growth over worldly pleasures.
KELECHI MARY - PETER ADRIAN EKWURIBE
My reflection!!
From the first reading and the gospel, we are reminded to always encourage anyone who is doing the right thing and not to discourage anyone because they do not belong to our class or are not members of our denomination.
We should also stay away from whatsoever that distracts our attention from our utmost goal of existence (focusing on gaining the Kingdom of God).
From the second reading, Saint James reminded us of the importance of utilizing our wealth wisely , perfectly, and not using it against those that are below our standard.
Reflecting on the action of John and the other disciples, I wonder what their actual motivation was for forbidding the "miracle worker."
Was it jealousy? I sincerely do not think so. I would rather think that they did that to safeguard the sanctity of Jesus and his holy name. In our day, there are several "miracle workers" and even "miracle hawkers," but how often do we pay attention to their testimonies about Jesus.
Christ was quick to tell the disciples that no one who does a mighty work in his name will be able soon after to speak evil of him. This shows us that the testimony of our mouths is equally important in the propagation of the Christian faith. Miracles will always happen, whether they be false or genuine. However, do we care about the truth about Jesus and what he has established?
May his grace always be sufficient for us. Amen!
"Whoever that is not against us is for us." Mark 9, 38 - 40.
We all want to be for Jesus, because it is the correct lifestyle of a Christian. At times, we find ourselves divided on who we are really for.
Our words profess that we are for him, but some of our daily actions don't quite show it. This is the struggle we face.
Femi (not real name) who has been jobless for three years finds a job opportunity but has to pay a bribe before he gets an offer letter. Yes, he professes who he belongs to, but some necessities of life force him to act in the contrary. Stories like these are all over, for both men and women.
May God help us to overcome the situations that would make us live contrary to what we profess.