To read the texts, click on the texts: James 5:1-6; Mk 9:41-50
This pericope contains a series of
sayings against those who cause scandal and other to sin. Anyone who
scandalizes 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. Mahatma
Gandhi himself was inspired by Christ, but he was quite clear not by
Christians. 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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