10th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME B
WHY THE HARDNESS OF HEART?
MK 3: 20-35
MESSAGE
As we enter Ordinary Time, today’s Gospel presents two groups before Jesus. On one hand, his relatives and the scribes unite to criticize him, accusing him of madness or alignment with the devil. On the other hand, there is a small circle of people—a modest crowd—eager to listen, learn, and surrender their lives to the Lord. Jesus regards these individuals as his new family, his “mother and brothers.”
Today, we contemplate why many, like those in the first group, refuse to believe in Jesus, follow him, or join his church. We find several answers. Many Catholics who depart from the church or become inactive do not fully grasp their faith, true, and some disagree with its teachings, also true. Some seek spiritual nourishment elsewhere, while others are disheartened by certain practices within the church.
Furthermore, there is a growing cohort who feel no compulsion to believe due to the prevailing cultural influences. Those living comfortably may perceive faith as exclusive to the destitute. The self-sufficient may deem divine assistance unnecessary, while proponents of autonomy fear faith in Jesus threatens their freedom. Similarly, those exalting success struggle to reconcile it with the symbol of our faith—the crucified Lord. For those who still hold faith, it becomes a mission to pray for such individuals and endeavor to reach out to them, guiding them towards the Lord.
REFLECT
If you are reading this, chances are you value faith or seek connection with God. Know that the Lord welcomes you into his new spiritual family. Pray that you may serve as an instrument to lead others to faith, introducing them to Jesus and his church through both word and deed.
