GOSPEL READING: Mk 9:41-50
These saying remind the listeners that discipleship is very difficult. It demands sacrifices. These are indeed challenges to those who say that following Jesus is to find complete personal fulfilment and satisfaction. There is a war between God and the power of evil. The follower should keep in mind that he is constantly challenged to choose God.
What we are asked to give up is not something sinful. Of course we should reject sin. But we should be ready to reject something which is good and God-given (like hand, feet and eyes). These are to be rejected when they lead us to wrong path, though they are good in themselves.
Salt purifies; so does fire. The disciples are asked to be salt of the earth. They should not lose their flavour and should not become worthless. They should live in peace with themselves and with the others. Living in peace is the flavour of the disciples of Jesus.
சீடத்துவம் கடினமானது. உலகத்தை தவிர்த்து கடவுளை தேர்ந்து கொள்ள வேண்டும். என்றும் எங்கேயும் எப்போதம் கடவுளை தேர்ந்து கொள்ள வேண்டும். தீமையை தவிர்ப்பது அவசியம் ஆனால் சில நேரங்களில் நல்லவற்றையும் (அவை நம்மை தீமைக்கு இட்டுச் சென்றால்) தவிர்க்கவேண்டும்.
