Mark 9:38-43,45,47-48

John objected when a person, who was not in their group, cast out demons in Jesus' name. Jesus himself had no problems with this. Jealousy can poison our outlook even when what is done by another is good. ‘S/he is invading my patch.' Perhaps you have seen, in yourself or in others, the negative effect of jealousy and the contrasting positive effect of being able to rejoice that good is being done, irrespective of the person doing it.

In strong terms Jesus condemns those who are destructive of the life of others, particularly the ‘little ones'. Just as Jesus came that we might have life and have it to the full, we likewise are here to make a positive difference to others. What was it like for you when you were able to do something that was helpful to another?

One of the ways in which we can do much harm is by adopting a superior, dismissive or judgemental attitude toward people whose lifestyle, spirituality or devotional practices differ from ours. Rather than setting ourselves up to judge others, would it not be better to see what we can learn from them?

Rather dramatically Jesus tells us to cut off a hand, or tear out an eye, rather than harm another. It is not to be taken literally but it does mean that we should not be casual about our efforts to live a good life that is respectful of others. When have you experienced the benefits of an element of seriousness in your approach to life