Hebrews 9:15,24-28
Psalm 97(98):1-6
Mark 3:22-30
SEEING GOD’S INTERVENTION AND ON THE CAPACITY TO LOVE AND TO RECONCILE
In our first reading from the letter to the Hebrews, we find a significant theological assertion: Christ inaugurates a new covenant as its mediator, having “once for all appeared at the end of the ages to take away sin through His sacrifice.” This act, rather than being one of condemnation, is fundamentally redemptive in nature.
In the Gospel passage today, we encounter a contentious reaction from some scribes who, upon witnessing or hearing about Jesus’s exorcisms, assert, “He is possessed by Beelzebul” and claim, “By the prince of demons he drives out demons.” Jesus counters these allegations with a logical inconsistency: “How can Satan drive out Satan?”
Toward the conclusion of this reading, He emphasizes the gravity of blaspheming the Holy Spirit, stating, “Amen, I say to you, all sins and all blasphemies that people utter will be forgiven them. But whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never have forgiveness but is guilty of an everlasting sin.”
This may resonate with our current experiences of societal division, prompting a reflection on our responses. Rather than safeguarding ourselves against the sin of blaspheming the Holy Spirit, there’s a tendency to perceive others’ words or actions as blasphemous, leading us to a mindset of seeking justification for our own condemnatory attitudes.
It is crucial to affirm that evil does exist; this acknowledgment does not preclude the necessity of advocating for justice. However, it is imperative to recognize that ultimate judgment rests with God. The resolution of condemnation is a divine prerogative.
As followers of Jesus, who exemplifies this sacrificial love, our orientation should be toward love rather than animosity. Instead of perpetuating a cycle of condemnation, we are encouraged to invoke the Holy Spirit to empower our capacity for love and reconciliation.
Fr Joseph Osho
