No one of ours!
The search for wisdom, says Ben Sirach, must be one of the main tasks of a person, for this search is a sign that one loves life. But God is a part of this search, for God blesses those who seek wisdom.
“He or she is not one of us” becomes easily an excuse for denying or belittling the good done by others, especially if they are not Catholics. Even today, there is a certain hesitancy to recognize the good done by people “who do not belong.” Jesus appreciated whatever good done by anyone, whether belonging to the group or not.
Reading: Sirach 4:11-19
Lady Wisdom breathes life into her children and takes care of those who seek her out. To love her is to love life. Those who wait in line for her experience sweetness from the Lord. Anyone who won’t let go of her will inherit glory. Wherever she makes a grand entrance, God gives a blessing. Wisdom’s regulars are in the service of the Holy One. Those who love her also love God and God loves them. Those who listen and learn from her will judge nations. If they get a good look at her, they will remain confident in the midst of adversity. Whoever believes in her will have her forever—they will pass her on to their heirs.
When Wisdom picks out a person for special instruction, there’s a trial period. She induces fear and terror in first-timers—just to see them in action and test them under fire—until she’s embedded herself in their thoughts and knows she can rely on them. She’ll strengthen them, shape them, lighten their steps with joy.
Gospel: Mark 9:38-40
John spoke up, “Teacher, we saw a man using your name to expel demons and we stopped him because he wasn’t in our group.”
Jesus wasn’t pleased. “Don’t stop him. No one can use my name to do something good and powerful, and in the next breath cut me down. If he’s not an enemy, he’s an ally.
Prayer
Our Father in heaven,
you let the sun shine and the rain come down
on good and bad alike.
Keep us from classifying people
and issuing condemnations lightly.
May we rather learn from your Son
to appreciate the good done by anyone,
whether one of us in the Church or not,
and to be united with anyone
who seeks truth, peace and justice.
For these are the works of the Holy Spirit
of you, our Father, and of your Son,
Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
February 27, Wednesday
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