In today's Mass readings, several people wanted to discard others who were different from them. Joshua wanted to discard Eldad and Medad (Nm 11:27-28). St. John the Apostle wanted to discard those who were ministering in Jesus' name but weren't of the company of the apostles (Mk 9:38). The secular culture would have us discard Jesus, a life based on faith, restrictions on pleasure-seeking, and even the words "sin" and "holiness."
However, Jesus had different ideas about what was to be discarded; He wanted to discard anything which caused people to lead others into sin (Mk 9:42-47). The author of the book of James wanted people to discard unjust use of money (Jas 5:2ff) and a lifestyle of pleasure which discarded concern for the poor (Jas 5:4-6). Pope Francis has frequently spoken against "a culture of waste," which discards people, in particular the marginalized.
When we renew our Baptismal promises each year at the Easter liturgies, we renounce, that is discard, Satan, all his works, and all his empty promises. What would Jesus have you discard today? Are there any attitudes, sins, attachments, and addictions He wants you to discard? Let us discard the correct things and retain all that is of God.
| PRAYER: | Father, may I be a good steward who keeps exactly what You wish (Mt 13:52) and discards nothing You want me to retain (Lk 13:9). |
| PROMISE: | "The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever." –Ps 19:10 |
| PRAISE: | Praise You, risen Jesus! "Absolute fullness resides in" You (Col 1:19). Alleluia! |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College