To read the texts click on the texts: Sir 5:1-8; Mk 9:41-50
This pericope contains a series of sayings against those who
cause scandal and other to sin. Anyone who scandalises or causes someone else
to stumble is a danger to those who believe. Jesus’ language here seems harsh,
but he is not asking individuals to maim parts of their body. Rather he is
using these striking metaphors to drive home powerfully the point he wants to
make, namely: that no one and nothing must be allowed to compromise the
kingdom. The metaphors reflect how important striving for the kingdom is. A disciple
of Jesus must be prepared to forego anything for the sake of the kingdom.
Our
behaviour in public sometimes results in leading others away from God and
Jesus. Those who see our behaviour and know that we are disciples of Jesus are
not inspired to follow him. Christ today is made visible and tangible through
the words and actions of those of us who believe in him and so we have an
enormous responsibility to make him known and draw others to him. People must
be able to see him in us.
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