Gospel

Mark 9:38-40

John said to Jesus,

"Teacher, we saw someone driving out demons in your name,

and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow us."

Jesus replied, "Do not prevent him.

There is no one who performs a mighty deed in my name

who can at the same time speak ill of me.

For whoever is not against us is for us.”

Reflection

It's hard for me to believe that for the first 27 years of my life, I believed that the Holy Roman Catholic Church was the only church that could bring somebody salvation. I wonder how that kind of teaching was so prevalent for so long, until Vatican Council blew it apart and talked about one very beautiful thing. Any community of people who turn to God and seek his truth is a means of salvation.

It's not membership in a domination that saves us. It's whether or not we're open to what is true, who God really is, and what we're really here for. I ask you to take a few moments to reflect upon the images, these stories. And then I will close with a prayer.

Closing Prayer

Father, you called us into a community much bigger than our religion, our circle of friends and family, our country. We are called to be a part of your work throughout the world. Bless us with the ability to embrace all who seek the truth. And we ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

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