Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Reading: Mark 9:38-41
Reflection: When I think about it, what an odd scene this is. The disciples come across a man who is not only casting out demons, but doing so in Jesus' name. It seems from the manner in which Mark records this episode that they were having success. Mark doesn't say that they were "attempting" to drive out demons, but that they were actually doing so. You would think that the disciples would rejoice to see God's kingdom advancing. After all, this man is doing the very works that Jesus is doing...and in doing them in His name they are recognizing that the authority and power to drive out demons ultimately comes not from themselves, but from Jesus. However, instead of celebrating the man's success, they order him to stop. And the reason for this order is because he is not a part of their group. One is left to wonder if the disciples are more concerned about the fact that this man can do what they themselves could not do just a little while earlier. In any case, Jesus corrects them quickly. They are not to act in exclusive ways, seeking to protect ministry within their little huddle. Rather, all those who do ministry in Jesus' name...all those who side with Jesus and His father's kingdom, are to be encouraged to do ministry. Why? Because as disciples our central calling is not to protect our positions of influence, but to support and encourage the expansion of God's kingdom wherever it is found. May we all seek to support those who do ministry in Jesus' name, whether they are a part of our group or another group. If Jesus' name is honored and God's kingdom is advanced, we should celebrate!
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