Mark 3:22-30: Sawing Off Branches
Monday, January 30, 2017
Jesus is very clear: A constantly squabbling family disintegrates.
We might use these words in our individual and collective lives.
Jesus tells us: Listen to this carefully. I’m warning you.
We might take this warning to heart.
Jesus reminds us: There’s nothing done or said that can’t be forgiven. But if you persist in your slanders against God’s Holy Spirit, you are repudiating the very One who forgives, sawing off the branch on which you’re sitting, severing by your own perversity all connection with the One who forgives.”
God says: I love you so intensely that I will do all that I must in order to have you near me; but if you persist in turning away my Spirit, you are creating a separation that you will not be able to bridge. I am always waiting for you, guiding you, protecting and advising you. Remain in me so that I might remain in you. Allow my Spirit to rest in you and to create a home in your heart. In this way, we will never be so far apart that you lose sight of me. Listen to my son, remain in my Spirit, and have hope always in me.
When we explore other translations of these verses, we open our understanding of God’s generosity, persistence and love.
For more on the Maestà of Duccio, click on the image above for two Khan Academy video lessons.
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