First Reading: Heb 9:15. 24-28; Psalm: 98 R. v. 1ab; Gospel: Mk 3:22-30

WARRING AGAINST THE DEVIL

BY FR VALENTINE NNAMDI EGBUONU, MSP

Ingratitude can be so hurtful especially when people try to rubbish the good we do by slanderous comments either directly or indirectly. This can even provoke the doer of the good action to anger. When we set out to do good; we must know that we are out against the Devil who is the master of evil. And when we fight the Devil; he surely will find a way to fight back.

We read today that some scribes who came from Jerusalem accused Jesus of being possessed because he casts out demons. Obviously, Jesus was contending with two forces. What these men said of Jesus was so unkind. Nothing discourages generosity like ingratitude. And worst still when it goes with slander. Jesus could have walked away angry and indisposed to do any further good work. But he did not. When he heard what the scribes said of him; he called them to himself and enlightened their dark hearts. This meek and unprovoked approach of Jesus is another strong weapon against the Devil.

When people do not appreciate what we do; the Devil could be fighting us to give up on our kindness and love. And when we hear unkind things said of us, the Evil one could also be trying to provoke us to anger. So, we must not allow the evil tongue of people lead us to a kind of anger that turns to become what the Devil wants from us. When people do not appreciate what we do; we can teach them that love is a greater force by extending our charity to those who appreciate them. This meek and unrelenting attitude hurts the Devil even more than when we first carried out a good work.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Lord Jesus, make our hearts like yours. Amen.