People Over Policies

Lectionary connections
Sunday, October 6
Mark 10:2-16

Placing In Context

The religious authorities want to pin Jesus down with an answer: “Is it lawful for…” They go on and on about what’s “right” regarding family life, and the disciples fall into the trap of thinking through policy more important than addressing the people right in front of them. Even after the right/wrong discussion, the disciples bring it back to Jesus for a final answer on right and wrong.

Ironically, The disciples sternly order the kids to keep away while they handle (what they assume to be) the important questions about proper family living. 

Beliefs that Endure

Jesus chooses to be with the kids instead of dealing with the doctrinal questions of what’s right and wrong. He picks the kids up and plays with them, blessing them with his attention.

Moving Forward

What doctrinal debates consume our time the most? In what ways is Jesus inviting us to take a break from “figuring everything out” to be present to the people around us?