Whenever we read the Gospel, we realize that Jesus, who is 100 percent God and 100 percent human, has a soft spot for the poor and the sinner. While society would judge these people, Jesus would not. In fact, he even mingled with them.
Yet, there were things that made even Jesus angry. One such time was in John’s Gospel. Why did Jesus get mad? He saw the injustice being done by the market vendors. The money changers would charge a very disadvantageous rate to the Jews who came from other countries. That is true also with the vendors who sold animals that were supposed to be used for offerings to burn.
Three reflections, before we think about taking advantage of others:
- All of us are brothers and sisters. All of us are a part of humanity. Hence all our lives are intertwined. When we make people happy, this affects humanity. When we make people sad or hurt other people, this affects humanity.
- All that we have is only lent to us. The talent and treasure that we have are only lent to us. It is God’s gift to us. As Jesus said, “freely you have received, freely you are to give.” Hence the talent and treasure that we have is meant to help others and not take advantage of others.
- The basis for eternal life is what have you done for others. When I was hungry, did you give me something to eat? When I was thirsty, did you give me something to drink… On the other hand, if we take advantage of others, we remember the words of Christ, “What profit does it gain if one has the whole world and loses his soul?
Hence in every Mass we pray that we may treat people with Kindness.
3 Ways 2 Your 1 God 