Read Mark 9:38-48
Not only did the disciples argue about who was the greatest among themselves, but they felt a sense of pride in being Jesus’ chosen ones. I mean who wouldn’t? They had an inside track to talking to Jesus, receiving special training and teaching, and were sent out on special assignments with his authority over evil and sickness. They were early stockholders in the movement. So John mentioned to Jesus that some other person was using Jesus’ name to heal and cast out evil. John was expecting Jesus to quickly jump into an exclusivist position of defense. Instead Jesus basically said, “Great! That will be a big help to the mission.” What?!
The disciples were certainly taken back by this. Then Jesus used the same child that had been with him since verse 36 to teach them to make the path of faith and the Kingdom accessible to even little children. Do not build walls around the movement to have insiders and outsiders. People seeking power and positions of influence can be a dam that stops the flow of a river. Pave a path for all to be included in God’s love. Remove stumbling blocks that prevent people from inclusion. The good news (Gospel) is for all. It is bigger than the leaders who might seek to control it. Love and freedom spread like a fire and resist containment.
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