The Battle Lies Within Us

Tuesday of week 7 in Ordinary Time 

James 4:1-10
Psalm 54(55):7-11,23
Mark 9:30-37

There is so much trouble in the world.
In our first reading today, James reflects upon the ongoing cause of conflicts. He states that the cause of conflicts is the war of passions within us.

The reason for the battles we have with others is the battle going on within our hearts. For this reason, St . James encourages us to “Submit yourselves therefore to God.  Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.  Draw near to God, and God will draw near to you.” Humble yourselves before the Lord and the Lord will exalt you.” (James 4: 7-8)

Let us ask ourselves the following questions; how do I allow my passion to get the best of me? How do the passions within us begets conflicts with others? How would I describe the difference between good resolutions and bad conflicts?

What kind of conflicts am I experiencing in my own life? To what degree do I feel a need to win arguments and conflicts at all costs? What does it mean for me to resist the devil and draw closer to God?
What do I need to do to draw nearer to God?

PRAYER
May God draw us closer to Himself. May God grant us the grace to love him dearly, and serve him more humbly and faithfully till the end.
May you stand firm and taller above your challenges and adversaries. Amen.

Fr Joseph Osho