The readings for today are about giving or taking. Getting of oneself or thinking about benefitting others.

In the reading from the Book of Numbers, the Lord came down and took some of the Spirit that was on Moses and shared it with the seventy leaders. Two who were in the camp and who were missing the infilling session were also blessed with the Spirit. Joshua who was then a young fiery man was very upset that the men who had missed the session had been filled with the spirit and he wanted them stopped but Moses was thinking otherwise and said something remarkable – “Would that all Yahweh’s people were prophets and that Yahweh would send his spirit upon them.’ Moses did not wish to remain exclusive and blessed, His wished that all the people had the same deep experience that He had. He did not feel threatened. As leaders or as people on a journey sometimes we want to be a head above the rest and so it can be with religious people as well, wanting to remain superior to the others.

The reading from St. James warns people about gathering riches for them- selves and building their fortunes. The sin is not about becoming rich but gaining at the expense of others. The stern warning is given about greed and self-gain. The Gospel proclamation from St, Mark has a similar story of people other that the Lord’s followers casting out demons and the Lord’s disciples com- plain because they do not belong to their group. The Lord gives his classic reply that Whoever is not against us is for us.

Our church which has been deeply divided over matters of theology and the word has this issue. We wonder why and if the Lord is the one behind the miracles being worked in other churches, Sometimes we are quick to dismiss them and they are quick to dismiss our work. But are we not aware that it is one Lord Jesus alive and who has given his life for each of us, Ultimately faith in action and love is more important than who is right or wrong. The Lord welcomes us to share a drink of water with those who are thirsting. We are invited to give life and fulness to children rather than to cause them to sin. If our hand or foot causes us to sin we are encouraged to cut them off rather than allow them to lead us to a future in hell. Finally if our eyes cause us to sin we are told to pluck them out rather than be eaten by worms in hell. I personally feel that if we limit our viewing by 10% everyday we will save ourselves from breaking so many commandments and committing so much sin. Let us instead of wanting to get, learn to give and love.

Prayer: Abba Father, I plead your mercy for my greed, unreserved wants and selfish style. May I choose to give rather than get. Amen.