Journal: How did you live out last week's Gospel message? What was tough? What was rewarding?
I had a friend who wrote a regular school newspaper column in college. He usually knew for sure he was right about an issue and attacked opposing arguments by making fun of them. His mind was closed, just like the Sadducees in this week's Gospel.
The Sadducees were members of a religious group whose beliefs differed from Jesus' teachings. For example, they didn't believe in the Resurrection or in angels. But in this week's Gospel, they didn't listen to him and rethink their positions; instead, they made an argument that mocked his beliefs.
That's too common in our society. People don't listen to one another; instead, they attack or belittle one another. It's an easy style to adopt. You don't have to think if you can shout down or mock your opponent.
But that's how you miss God's wisdom. This week's Gospel reminds us that sometimes God challenges our positions on things like religion, school, and family. That challenge will likely come through friends, priests, teachers and family members. The Spirit calls us to keep our minds open, especially to people whom we disagree.
Here are some tips:
1, When you disagree with someone, avoid the temptation to close your mind or respond with sarcasm or personal attacks. Think. Ask God to help you consider opposing opinions.
2. Don't let pride get in the way. God calls us to full life, but we miss out-like the Sadducees did-when we're not open to the spiritual and intellectual changes that life brings.
Journal: What makes it tough for you to keep your mind open when you disagree with someone? What keeps you from seeking and accepting what God wants you to know in order to live a fuller, more abundant life?
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