Thursday May 23, 2024

Mark 9:41-50

If your hand should cause you to sin, cut it off

Jesus said to his disciples:

‘If anyone gives you a cup of water to drink just because you belong to Christ, then I tell you solemnly, he will most certainly not lose his reward.

This may seem like it does not connect with the gospel but hear me out. I have never seen a group of people get so excited and freaked out like Africans when someone screams SNAKE. We don’t like them at all. With us all snakes are king cobras. Imagine my shock when at a pet zoo, my Grayson put a python around his neck/shoulders. Am out!!!! Nope nope, that is clearly from his mama’s side of genes.

The Irish priests on the other hand in my African experience did not mind the snakes. They freaked out with SPEED. We loved driving fast and Fr Patrick would yell, watch your speed!

What freaked out Jesus? Anything that endangers your soul. Anything that seeks to crowd out the fire of God in you. Jesus was dramatic about it. If your hand causes you to sin, get rid of it! Seriously! Yes it is that important. If you have a friend who brings out the worst in you, end it.

Only do things, be around people, invite in your life what is of God. Your soul will guide you to those things.

Fr. Chibundi