By Shanborlang Mawrie csc –
Readings: Jas 5:1-6; Mk 9:41-50
When I reflect on my personal life, I see that my life is similar to salt.
Salt is good but if it has lost its saltiness, it loses its worth. Similarly, in my life too, if I do not live a good life and if I am not ready to change, then my life is wasted. Then, it is of no use even if I live a hundred years.
Every day I make choices which define the worthiness of my future. My choices affect my personal life and those around me. Instead of living a good life, sometimes, I spread poison like anger, hatred, and jealousy, which become obstacles for the growth of others.
Jesus becomes terribly upset when we have this kind of attitude. He remarks that it is better to tie a stone on such a person’s neck and throw him into the sea. Every human being is created in the image and likeness of God, which means there is a divinity within each person.
Therefore, as a Christian, I am responsible for my fellow human beings. I should be kind and compassionate towards those who come to seek help. I should be ready to reach out to them without counting the cost or expecting any reward.
We are fragile human beings. Sometimes we make mistakes, but we should not remain in that same state. Every time we make a mistake, we should learn to stand and start a new life again. Jesus wants me to cut off from my bad attitude and habits, which blocks my way to do what God wants me to do.
So, through the readings, Jesus brings the picture of a child to show me that in children there is no crookedness, and they are quick to forgive. Let us introspect asking this question to ourselves, “am I ready to be like a child who is innocent? Do I make my life and others’ life worth living?”