In today’s gospel account, Jesus is accused of collaborating with Satan because he has cast out a demon. Jesus quickly counters the absurdity of the claim by stating that, “Every kingdom divided against itself will be laid waste and house will fall against house” (Luke 11:17).
If there is one thing that Satan, the one who accuses, the father of lies, and his demons are unified on, it is to promote disunity, isolation, and chaos. They will seek any way to break through our defenses, our weaknesses, tempt, and mislead, to get us to even doubt the truth. They also seek to isolate us from one another. Here Jesus is healing a person from being possessed and it is made to look like he is in league with the devil.
Jesus reveals the error and builds on it with the truth, “But if it is by the finger of God that I drive out demons, then the Kingdom of God has come upon you” (Luke 11:20). The kingdom of God reveals and casts out demons, uncovers lies, and reconciles division. Jesus in his perfection comes to purify, cleanse, and to restore the true Father’s original purpose of harmony, oneness, and unity.
Jesus offers those in his midst a choice through his words. They can choose to recognize him as the Son of God who acts in the name of the Father and join him, or they can reject him and side with the enemy. They are free to choose and receive the consequences of their choice.
We are given the same choice today and with each choice we make. Do we take a moment before deciding to ask is this the will of God? Are our thoughts, words, and actions, divisive, hurtful, unkind, or are they unifying, empowering, and loving? For any in the first category, great! When we can admit that, then we can repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. It is important to recognize our need for healing, which helps us to be more prudent, and ask Jesus for help to begin again.
For those in the second category, let us thank Jesus for working through us. In both ways, we recognize the truth, and we continue to build on the love Jesus gives us, we trust him even more, we grow in relationship with him, and can better share the love he offers with others.
Let us choose Jesus today. Let us choose to be loved and to love in return.
Photo: The light of Jesus reveals the truth and the way and the life. Rosary walk, St. Vincent De Paul Regional Seminary, Boynton Beach, FL.
Spiritual Stepping Stones 