First Reading: Ws 1:1-7; Psalm: 139. R. v. 24b; Gospel: Lk 17:1-6
DISCIPLINED LIVING
BY FR VALENTINE NNAMDI EGBUONU, MSP
Every one of us has the proclivity to abuse our freedom of choice and action. This is so true because we all have the right to choose how we want to live our lives. But actions have consequences and we have the moral responsibility to accept these consequences. For instance, if there was a penalty for stealing, we should be ready for such penalty when we choose to steal. But beyond being morally responsible for our actions, we have the moral obligation to always remember that actions do not only have direct but also indirect consequences.
In the gospel of today, Jesus said to his disciples; “Temptations to sin are sure to come; but woe to him by whom they come! It would be better for him if a millstone were hung round his neck and he were cast into the sea, than that he should cause one of these little ones to sin.” It is true that most times when we decide to carry out an action with huge consequences, we often do not choose to do so to influence or lead others astray but to satisfy our own desires. This shows how selfish we can be at times. But if we were consciously considerate, we should know that whatever we do affects or influences the people around us. And Jesus warns that we shall be accountable for that.
These berating words of Jesus should keep us in check whenever we are tempted to act as we please. Because we live in a world where people are easily influenced by conventional norms. An immoral act becomes right when it gains general acceptance. And the society learns so fast. So, we must be wary of our actions. The wrong things we do and the unholy places we go might seem right to the sight of the young. Dressing provocatively could lead into sin someone who is battling with some sinful addictions. Every wrong action we take has double consequences. We will be doing great charity to the society if we paid careful attention to our actions.
PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Lord Jesus, we pray for the grace to watch over one another in love through our choices and actions. Amen.
