God's message compels us to go beyond self-imposed boundaries and exclusions
by Sister Laura Zelten
We often hear phrases like, "We've always done it this way," or "I'm right, and you're wrong." The readings for the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B stress the importance of not excluding or hindering those who carry out God's work. There are various ways to spread God's message.
In the first reading, two men are empowered to prophesy, despite not being present when the group received the Spirit, causing discontent among the Israelites. Similarly, in the Gospel, the Apostles express worry about an individual outside their circle casting out demons in Jesus' name, but Jesus advises against impeding others. Jesus teaches us to support individuals in their early stages of faith and avoid creating obstacles. The Greek term for "sin" also implies "stumbling" or "causing offense." Jesus vividly demonstrates to his disciples the consequences for those who obstruct others on their faith journey.
As disciples, our mission goes beyond personal righteousness; it entails reaching out, showing love, promoting justice, and encouraging freedom and solidarity with others. We are encouraged to be welcoming and compassionate, acting as prophets to reveal that God, the source of love, justice, freedom, and unity, desires all to experience a rich faith life.