21/02/2022

Today's readings place us in a world that we can recognise in the passage from James. Most of us  have lived in a world were being successful is the norm and all of us compete to have more of everything. Even on my allotement I always compare my vegetables with those on neighbouring plots. I have to try not to be jealous. James makes it clear that what is normal for the world; growing richer, having a higher place in society, having more "likes" on social media is not what God wants of us. Kindness and compassion are the virtues that we need to become the "peacemakers" who are blessed by the Lord. Everyday I have to ask myself whether or not I am a hypocrite for I am always concerned that what I write and pray is holiness without sincerity of heart.

The world in the Gospel is most definitely 1st Century Palestine. There is a crowd of people hoping see to the sensational new preacher who has astounded their world by wonders of healing and words of wisdom. The young man is not sick but he is possessed by a devil. The close followers of Jesus are unable to do anything for the young man. The whole crowd was amazed to see Jesus who was able to cure the sick one. He also preached. Jesus' discourse with the crowd was somewhat ill-tempered. "If you can"? is sarcasm that we do not expect to hear from Our Lord. " You faithless generation how much longer do I have to put up with you?" is not "gentle Jesus meek and mild".

The words in private "this is the kind that can only be driven out by prayer"do not do a lot to explain what has just been recorded.

Dear Lord facing this Gospel of today is not easy, as you do seem to be dissatisfied with your created beings. I have always known you to be kind and compassionate and with a message completely open to all of us. I do believe but today I am in need of more Faith as I put myself in the crowd of your listeners.