BE A STEPPING STONE AND NEVER A STUMBLING BLOCK

 HOMILY FOR 26TH OF THE ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR B

R1: Numbers 11:25-29

R/P: Psalm 18:8,10,12-14

R2: James 5:1-6

Accl: Jn 17:17

Gospel:Mark 9:38-43,45,47-48

Theme:

BE A STEPPING STONE AND NEVER A STUMBLING BLOCK

The salvation of the soul is the supreme law ( Salus animarum est suprema lex) remains the central focus and reason behind our daily struggle in the Christian journey. To achieve the goal of this law a good example for others remains one of the ways.

The sin of scandal poses a major obstacle towards our spiritual growth as such Jesus was specific in condemning it when he says in the Gospel pericope, that it would be better to hang a millstone round the neck of anybody  who will lead others astray, especially the little ones, and cast such person into the sea. Many are led astray by the evil advice and bad example of their leaders. As such, Jesus profers death by casting to the sea, as a preferable punishment for anyone especially a leader that deceives and leads others astray. This is to show how grievous such a sin is.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church was specific on the sin of scandal when it says that scandal takes on a particular gravity by reason of the authority of those who cause it or the weakness of those who are scandalized ( CCC 2285)

We ought therefore to endeavour to curb the evil thoughts and desires in us. The members of our body as Jesus mentioned in the Gospel of today, render good services when they are put to a good use. They are not even the cause of our actions since they are only employed to carry out actions that are already decided. It is the conscience which is the seat of moral judgement that is responsible for our actions. Thus we need to also show good example making our  consciences pure.

To do the work of God, we ought not to be divided. Jesus teaches us In the Gospel of todayh that He did not come to install a kingdom of the inner caucus. The kingdom of God is encompassing and for all. It is a universal kingdom. It is also the desire of Jesus that everybody embraces this kingdom. Therefore we must  not stop anyone from carrying out the work of God since Jesus chooses whoever he wants and the Holy Spirit blows where he wills.

There are so many Edads and Medads in our society today, as we see in the first reading. Let us give them room and welcome them in the all important task of bringing people to Jesus.

May the Lord grant us the grace to show good example and open up our arms to embrace all who work for the growth of Church. Amen.

Reflection by:

Rev Fr Francis C Nwanebu,  SMMM