By Sharon Pious csc –
Readings: Num 11:25-29; Jas 5:1-6; Mk 9: 38-43,45,47-48
In today’s Gospel, we see Jesus’s disciples complaining to him about the miracles done in his name. The reason was simple – those who performed miracles did not belong to the circle of his disciples. Jesus asked them not to stop the good works that they do, for “everyone who is not against us is with us” (Mk 9:40).
As religious, we complain about the work of the NGOs and laypeople who sometimes do better than us. In the gospel, we see that the disciples seemed to be frightened about their position among the people. They felt insecure of losing their name and fame in the locality.
Often, like the disciples, we do a little bit of good work and do not want others to be involved in a similar ministry that they are good at. The gospel welcomes everyone to be part of his circle, who has known him and do his works. In the first reading, we see that the disciples of Moses also did the same.
The followers of Moses complained to him about Eldad and Medad, who were not of the circle of prophets. Moses rebuked them for their envy. God’s love and grace is for all of us. True love seeks the highest good of our neighbour, while envy results from selfishness and pride, contrary to true Christian love. Jesus’ instruction invites all Christians to accept him as Lord and saviour to work together for the common welfare of all, especially for the poor, the sick, and the marginalized. We should never be a block to those who do good work irrespective of identities and
ideologies.