Temptations Along the Way

Mark 9:43-47 (NRSV): Temptations Along the Way

If your hand causes you to stumble, cut it off; it is better for you to enter life maimed than to have two hands and to go to hell. And if your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off; it is better for you to enter life lame than to have two feet and to be thrown into hell. And if your eye causes you to stumble, tear it out; it is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than to have two eyes and to be thrown into hell.

Following the way, the truth, and the life of Jesus Christ does not come naturally; it comes, instead, through God’s grace and our willingness to cooperate. But along the way of discipleship, we are confronted with many obstacles. In Mark 9:43-47, Jesus identifies three. The hand, foot, and eye symbolize the different types of sins we face. And in identifying these sins, Jesus teaches us how to progress in the life of his Spirit and to bear good witness to him in this world.

When we are presented with temptation, Jesus tells us to “cut it off” or “tear it out.” The passage’s application is metaphorical, not literal. The hand symbolizes those habits and activities that we do, the actions we take that lead us either away from or toward God. The “foot” represents the places to which we go and the groups and individuals with whom we associate. The “eye,” finally, represents the experiences to which we expose ourselves. To “stumble” is to sin and lose our balance and way. Jesus reminds us, however, to cut out the distractors in life  -- actions, places, people, habits, and exposures -- that make us fall. What, then, is the Christian response?

This past week, for example, I had a vocational epiphany. Through the most unexpected means, I realized that some of my habits were leading me away from being more focused and effective at my job. I had to cut and tear out the distractions. And once I recognized the bad habits, I prayed for God’s grace and acted in faith to change them. Believe me, conversion is an ongoing process; it is not a destination.

In prayer, let us ask God for direction and insight into his truth. Are there any areas where the Holy Spirit is calling us to a more authentic, honest experience of service? If so, let us ask God to open our eyes to them. Has my hand, foot, or eye led me off of the path? Let us pray for the grace to grow in God’s will. It is a prayer that I daily need.

Have a Happy Memorial Day and a blessed week!

Stan