Radical discipleship

Author: Fr. Amala Gnana Prabhu Jesuraj
The weight of small acts in God’s kingdom
Reflection Date: February 27, 2025 Thursday of the Seventh Week in Ordinary Time
Daily Readings: Sirach 5:1-8; Mark 9:41-50

Sirach 5:1-8 warns against overconfidence in one’s righteousness and the moral dangers of wealth and power. It vividly portrays how ambition and selfish desires can lead people astray, distancing them from God. The passage urges humility, reminding us of our fragility and the need to turn away from sin. Rather than allowing material gain to dictate our moral choices, we are called to remain steadfast in faith and integrity.

Mark 9:41-50 emphasizes the radical nature of discipleship. Jesus highlights that even small acts of kindness—such as offering a cup of water—hold great significance in God’s Kingdom. He also warns against leading others into sin, stressing the profound consequences of wrongdoing. His metaphor of removing a hand or foot if they cause one to stumble underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for decisive action in maintaining spiritual integrity.

Together, these two liturgical readings call for deep reflection on the Christian journey. They remind us that ethical choices have both personal and communal impacts, urging us to align our lives with God’s will. True discipleship requires humility, accountability, and a commitment to spiritual wealth over material riches. Integrity must be cultivated not only in grand gestures but also in small, everyday actions that reflect God’s love.

Ultimately, today’s readings challenge us to live with purpose and intention. Every choice we make—whether in private reflection or public action—echoes in eternity. By prioritizing faith over fleeting desires, we foster a life rooted in righteousness, humility, and service.

A Call to Action for Catholic Living: Let us choose integrity over ambition, kindness over indifference, and faith over fleeting desires—reflecting God’s love in even the smallest acts today.