What's it all about, Alfie?

One way of appreciating the Gospel message of this Sunday is to read it as a continuation of the "discipleship" theme that Mark develops in his gospel, a theme that started with the gospel of two Sundays ago, on Divorce and last Sunday, on the Rich Young Man. In fact, the Gospel for next Sunday, Blind Bartimeaus, should also be read in the context of this theme.

All these three Gospel episodes show the radical, therefore difficult, demands of discipleship, of following Christ. They also show us how different the way of Christ is from the ways of the world. While the world says, "when the relationship is getting sours, dispatch the woman (or man)," Christ says, "What God has put together, let no human being put assunder.' While the world says, "To have riches, thick wallets, several credit cards, multiple bank accounts is the most secure way to go," Christ says, "Go and sell your belongings and give the money to poor." And while the world says, "Make sure to get promotion as quickly as possible or do your best to keep the top position, no matter what," Jesus says, "the best place is the lowest; the biggest man is the smallest." A totally different standard, a totally odd worldview, a totally difficult way of proceeding.

Why follow Him? The first reading hints at a possible answer:

"Because of his affliction he shall see the light in fullness of days;

through his suffering, my servant shall justify many..."

What is your life about, Alfie? For you or for others. By your answer, you will know which way to go.