Jesus knows, of course, that it is not our hands or our feet or our eyes which cause us to sin (cf. Mark 7:14-23). There is a certain sarcastic, even caustic wit in telling us to lop off extremities, as if it were that simple. Sometimes, humour is more effective—more disarming at any rate—than blunt exhortation (hence, dictators always fear the comedians). The point is not lost however: we need to get to the root of the matter and undergo conversion of heart, then of life and then of the whole person, limbs and all!

Prayer
Loving God, help us to continue on the path of conversion of heart and life. Help us to make those choices which will reflect our faith in you, loving, just and faithful God. Help us to see ourselves as you would wish us to be, in your own image and likeness.

K O’Mahony OSA