First Reading - Numbers 11:25-29
Second Reading - James 5:1-6
Gospel - Mark 9:38-43,45,47-48
Mahatma Gandhi once said: "I like Christ, but I do not like
Christians because the lives of Christians are contrary to the teachings of
Christ." These words deeply resonate with us because they express the
discomfort of someone who, while admiring Jesus, felt scandalized by the
behavior of those who called themselves His followers. Gandhi expected
Christians to live according to Christ’s values and teachings, but he often
found a discrepancy between the message of the Gospel and the actions of those
professing to be Christian.
In Greek, the verb σκανδαλίζω refers to "placing an obstacle
before someone." We can imagine that if an obstacle is placed in someone's
path, they might trip and fall. This can also happen in our journey of faith,
whether we are the ones causing scandal or we ourselves are scandalized. The
readings today invite us to reflect on this theme and to avoid occasions of
scandal, instead encouraging us to support those who have been affected by it.
In the Gospel, we see two examples of scandal. First, the disciples,
through John’s words, feel scandalized because they see someone casting out
demons in Jesus’ name, even though that person isn’t part of their close group.
However, Jesus guides them not to be scandalized, explaining that good can be
done even by those who don’t necessarily belong to the twelve. This teaches us
that God’s work isn’t confined by the boundaries we might imagine.
Second, Jesus warns about the seriousness of becoming a source of
scandal to others, as it can drive people away from faith and trust in God.
This reminds us of the great responsibility we bear for our actions and
behaviors, which can impact the spiritual lives of those who observe us.
In the first reading, we see another situation of scandal: Joshua is
scandalized when he notices that Eldad and Medad continue to prophesy, even
though they do not belong to the group of elders who had received the spirit of
Moses. But Moses, with wisdom, guides Joshua to a deeper understanding, helping
him recognize that God’s gifts are not limited by human boundaries. Once again,
we learn that the Spirit of God works where it wills, unconstrained by our
categories or expectations.
Finally, in the second reading, St. James warns us about the scandal
that can arise from greed and the accumulation of wealth. The obsession with
material goods can lead people to commit evil deeds, and this attitude condemns
them. St. James urges us to reflect on the consequences of greed and invites us
to choose a different path, one grounded in justice and love for others.
Dear brothers and sisters, it is a reality that we often hear stories
of scandals. However, today’s readings exhort us to overcome occasions that
could lead to scandal. Scandal can drive many people away from the Lord, so it
is our responsibility to avoid anything that might become a stumbling block for
others. Instead, we should strive to be examples of a lived faith for others.
The readings also encourage us to support those who have been scandalized, with
prayer and spiritual guidance.
Let us pray that God helps us avoid occasions of scandal that might
lead others away from the Lord, and that we may become examples of goodness and
faith through our daily lives.
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