Gospel LK 9:46-50
An argument arose among the disciples
about which of them was the greatest.
Jesus realized the intention of their hearts and took a child
and placed it by his side and said to them,
“Whoever receives this child in my name receives me,
and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me.
For the one who is least among all of you
is the one who is the greatest.”
Then John said in reply,
“Master, we saw someone casting out demons in your name
and we tried to prevent him
because he does not follow in our company.”
Jesus said to him,
“Do not prevent him, for whoever is not against you is for you.”
Reflection
An argument arose among the disciples
about which of them was the greatest.
As we go about doing God’s work on earth, it is important that we stay on guard against our ego and pride. In the program of Alcoholic Anonymous the word “ego” is broken down as “Easing God Out.”
The book of Proverbs also cautions us: “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” Proverbs 16:18
Jesus realized the intention of their hearts and took a child
and placed it by his side…..
A child has no authority. Jesus chose to use a child as an example of someone who is powerless and needs to be provided for in order to survive.
and said to them….”Whoever receives this child in my name receives me,and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. For the one who is least among all of you
is the one who is the greatest.”
Jesus’ message is clear. If we are to be one with Jesus and God who sent Him, we must have a desire and willingness to care for and serve those who are powerless.
Then John said in reply,
“Master, we saw someone casting out demons in your name
and we tried to prevent him
because he does not follow in our company.”
Jesus said to him,
“Do not prevent him, for whoever is not against you is for you.”
John mistakenly believed that their little band of disciples had exclusive rights to the good works of Jesus. He did not understand that no man or group can take possession of what belongs to God alone.
Jesus said to him,
“Do not prevent him, for whoever is not against you is for you.”
As followers of Christ, Jesus call us to be inclusive. It does matter to the person who is hungry and homeless who gives him food and shelter as long as it is done in the love and compassion of God.
“If we hope to make known the love of God, we must be willing to bend to lift up those who have fallen.”  Unknown