Think of the trouble spots all over our world brought on by the expectation
that "we"
are right and "they"
are wrong. We expect our right ideas to win. Division rather than unity is the
mark of the church as well. People are separated by race, culture, economic and
educational differences. The situation seems hopeless.
- What are the situations in your life that seem hopeless in this changing world?
Enter the Story
The disciples were probably very excited that Jesus had started on the way to Jerusalem. After seeing the blind man healed -- a sure prediction of the Messiah, as well as the many other miracles they had witnessed -- their expectations were high. They might have thought, "It must be time to claim the kingdom. We have a powerful leader." If this was their understanding the questions and comments they make seem perfectly in order. Isn't it important to know whose side people are on? Who are the real leaders? the "top brass".
Discover the "Good News"
The almost casual remark by Jesus changes all that."Who ever is not against us is for us"! The disciples argue on the way and Jesus describes a very different kind of kingdom. (This "catechism of the road" as Chad Meyer describes it, begins with the question "Do you still not understand?" Mark 8:21 and concludes when another blind man is healed and Jesus enters Jerusalem, Mark 11:1.)
- What is the "good news" for you here?
The late Cardinal, Joseph Bernardin in launching his Common Cause Initiative for dialogue in the Catholic church gives hope and some practical principles to help all of us choose community rather than separation.
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We should recognize that no single group or viewpoint has a complete monopoly on the truth.
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We should presume that those with whom we differ are acting in good faith.
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We should put the best possible construction on differing positions.
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We should be cautious in ascribing motives.
Hope seems to center in the areas where there is mediation and small acts of kindness, "a cup of water", if you will. Our hearts lighten when we see people helping people. It takes a lot of energy to exclude others. We can choose to embrace the freedom that inclusion brings.
- How do the statements above help you? How do you choose hope? This is the challenge.
Suggested Readings:
- Binding the Strong Man, Chad Myers, Orbis Books, 1988.