09-03-23

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
September 3, 2023
In Mark’s Gospel, the Scribes sure didn’t come off looking so good. In chapter 3, we read:

And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem said, ‘He (Jesus) has Beelzebul, and by the ruler of the demons he casts out demons.’

Now some of the Scribes might have actually believed Jesus was Beelzebul (thought to be one of the greater evil forces in the universe), but I sort of wonder if it was more playground name-calling. How often, when people do not know what to say, will they reach for an insult or try to bully with an over-the-top disparaging remark? Maybe even hoping to distract from the fact that they have no real argument in their own defense.

In Acts 17, some of the philosophers who have been debating the Apostle Paul say to him, "What does this babbler want to say?" I do not believe the word "babbler" is used endearingly. In fact, it sort of leaves the reader appreciating Paul, who appears to take the high road, continuing to embody the love of Jesus even in a good debate.

Though I may feel passionate about my beliefs and engage in some good debate, I pray that I never forget the central purpose of my faith, O Lord. You have called me to love, even when someone posts a nasty word about me on social media. Amen