The Gospel of Mark: Beware the Scribes

As (Jesus) taught, he said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets! They devour widows’ houses and for the sake of appearance say long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.” ~ Mark 12:38-40


Does this resonate with you? Sometimes I read a passage in scripture and can get clear images of the lesson playing out today.

How much are people focused on status and looking their best these days?

How often do we grumble about politicians who talk a good game but then pass policies that hurt the people who they are meant to protect?

Or how often do we read news about religious leaders caught in a scandal?

It turns out that as distant as we are in time from Jesus' day, people haven't really changed all that much. We still manage to put on face to be seen, and hide another face from view.

I remember as a kid thinking that people we such hypocrites! I was never going to be like that.

Ha! What little I knew...

For Jesus, it was all about integrity: be the person you claim to be when you face the world.

Be concerned not about your own comforts but about your neighbors, especially those who have far less than you do.

A lesson indeed for the ages.


Holy God, thank you for the gospel - the good news - of your Son. Open my mind and heart to this good news and enliven me with your Spirit of servanthood that I might share this good news with a world in need. Amen


Engagement Questions:


What is integrity to you? How do you see it in others? How do you see it in yourself?





 

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