Gospel Reading: Mark 12: 28-34
As we approach the drama of Easter we find the plot beginning to thicken in the gospels. A scribe approaches Jesus and a conversation takes place about what is important in the Law. Quoting from Deutoronomy about love of God and neighbour Jesus sums up all the law in a sentence. When the scribe understands that these are more important the burnt offerings or sacrifice Jesus commendes him, telling him he is not far from the kingdom.
Then the punch line: "And after that, no one dared question him any more." Luke is drawing us closer into the tension of what is going to happen. Why does no one question him, we ask ourselves. Over the next couple of weeks we shall find the answer. But one thing is certain, you know now that the lines have been drawn, the battle field entered. This Jesus is just too smart for the Jewish authorities abd something has to be done. Strangely, he is also too smart for us....as we try to rationalise our behaviour he has a way of getting through our self deception and letting us know the truth. And often we feel a little ashamed of what we see....
As we approach the drama of Easter we find the plot beginning to thicken in the gospels. A scribe approaches Jesus and a conversation takes place about what is important in the Law. Quoting from Deutoronomy about love of God and neighbour Jesus sums up all the law in a sentence. When the scribe understands that these are more important the burnt offerings or sacrifice Jesus commendes him, telling him he is not far from the kingdom.
Then the punch line: "And after that, no one dared question him any more." Luke is drawing us closer into the tension of what is going to happen. Why does no one question him, we ask ourselves. Over the next couple of weeks we shall find the answer. But one thing is certain, you know now that the lines have been drawn, the battle field entered. This Jesus is just too smart for the Jewish authorities abd something has to be done. Strangely, he is also too smart for us....as we try to rationalise our behaviour he has a way of getting through our self deception and letting us know the truth. And often we feel a little ashamed of what we see....
