Psalms 78:1-39 * 78:40-72; Isaiah 59:1-15a; 2 Timothy 1:1-14; Mark 9:42-50If today's Gospel selection doesn't prove the point about Jesus talking metaphorically with an intention that we not take his words literally, I don't know what passage would. Otherwise there wouldn't be enough millstones to tie around an eyeless, footless, handless world. Jesus says quite clearly that we are not to get in the way of people who are on the journey to God's kingdom, no matter what their age. Many interpret "little ones" as children, but scholars disagree if Jesus was referring only to children, or to those who are infants in their spiritual growth, no matter their age. I prefer the latter.
Now this might lead us to believe that we must be bland and unseasoned, to fit in and not stand out in order not to get in the way of others. Jesus takes care of that misunderstanding by saying that we must be salty, seasoned, personally involved...Salt is an amazing flavor-enhancer. This seasoning can take something that seems bland and grab and bring to the forefront the nuances of its essence. Salt can also overwhelm the product we are seeking to enhance and so must be used thoughtfully. This is kind-of-like being introspective on a walk to the beach at dusk, while at the same time being engaged in a deep conversation with a dear friend or loved one. Striking that correct balance needs thought and care....a real engagement with what we are doing and who we are.
Where in our lives today can we thoughtfully bring forth our own salty-being to enhance the nuances of life, enhancing the essence of the kingdom we, and others, have yet to experience?
jfd+
Copyright 2011, The Rev. John F. Dwyer. All Rights Reserved.
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