Reflection: Mark 5:38-42

11th Monday in Ordinary Time – Mark 5:38-42

Today Jesus is talking with his disciples about nonviolence. He tells them that even though they had been taught from a young age to retaliate when a person injures, robs or accosts them, that regardless of the injury or loss they should not retaliate or punish the offender in any way. I wonder what the disciples were thinking and feeling as they listened to these words of Jesus?

Jesus’ message was counter-cultural and mind-blowing! These strong and independent men were being told that they simply should let go of another person’s offense or insult. And not only should they ignore the insult, they were to “turn their other cheek” to the offender! If they did this, the offender might do more harm to them. Also, the perpetrator likely would think that Jesus’ disciples were wimps and cowards!

Jesus continues by saying if someone presses you to do something, you immediately should do as they asked. Again, Jesus does not stop there. He then tells his disciples not to turn their backs on anyone who makes a request to them. Wow! Can you ever imagine yourself never using the word no? This seems impossible as well as unhealthy. At times, we all need to say no for very good reasons. Perhaps Jesus is asking that we stop and think before we answer yes or no. At times, when I may say no to someone it may not be because I cannot do what they are asking. Rather, the truth may be: I simply don’t want to do it!

Jesus continually calls us to move beyond ourselves and our world. True, I may be busy but I possibly may be able to do what this individual is asking. Today we most likely will need to say no to someone. However, may we only say no when we truly are not able to do it. This is all that Jesus desires from us: that we freely and lovingly give what we are able to share with others!