Servants of God

At that time, John said to Jesus,
"Teacher, we saw someone driving out demons in your name,
and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow us."
Jesus replied, "Do not prevent him.
There is no one who performs a mighty deed in my name
who can at the same time speak ill of me.
For whoever is not against us is for us.
Anyone who gives you a cup of water to drink
because you belong to Christ,
amen, I say to you, will surely not lose his reward.

"Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin,
it would be better for him if a great millstone
were put around his neck
and he were thrown into the sea.
If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off.
It is better for you to enter into life maimed
than with two hands to go into Gehenna,
into the unquenchable fire.
And if your foot causes you to sin, cut if off.
It is better for you to enter into life crippled
than with two feet to be thrown into Gehenna.
And if your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out.
Better for you to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye
than with two eyes to be thrown into Gehenna,
where 'their worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched.'"

Mk 9:38-43, 45, 47-48

  https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/092924.cfm

In Sunday's Gospel reading from St. Mark 9:38-43, 45, 47-48, we are presented with two essential lessons that hold great significance for our daily lives. Firstly, the Gospel emphasizes our grave obligation to avoid causing scandal to our fellow-Christians and to any individual we encounter. This calls for a mindful approach in our actions and words, as we impact those around us. Secondly, we are reminded of the importance of being willing to sacrifice any earthly possession that may lead us into sin. This sacrifice, though challenging, highlights our commitment to spiritual growth and integrity. Let us reflect on these teachings and strive to embody them in our journey of faith as Catholic men.