Wise way of settling the Dispute

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season: Seventh Week : Tuesday

*Gospel : Mk 9:30-37*

*First Reading : Jas 4:1-10*

*Wise way of settling the Dispute*

*1) Dispute among the Disciples*

The Gospel presents to us a dispute among the disciples 

The dispute about *Who is greatest among them?*

That was the great and burning issue among the disciples

Jesus came to know this issue and he tries to solve it in the following way 

*2) Strategy followed to solve the Dispute*

*A) Jesus called all of them*

First and important step. He made all of them to come together

Coming together is a very important step in solving the issue

*B) Jesus clarifies the issue*

Jesus knew the issue which was disturbing the disciples 

Still he asked his disciples about the matter *“What were you arguing about on the way?”*

Trying to clarify the matter from the concerned party is very important 

This step helps us to keep away ourselves from biased opinions 

*C) He made them to sit together*

Coming together is not sufficient. Sitting together is very important 

It is a gesture which communicates a powerful message, that is, readiness to listen to the other party

*D) Explanation of the issue*

Next Jesus takes up the issue and speaks to them. After asking them about the problem, Jesus gives an explanation which helped the disciples to understand the nature of His mission 

*E) Practical example*

In his attempt to solve the matter Jesus gives them a practical example, the example of a child 

The Gospel says *Taking a child he placed it in their midst,  and putting his arms around it he said to them,*

The example of the child enlighted the disciples about their meanness and that greatness of the Master 

*3) Poilet Way*

Jesus uses the polite way while solving the dispute 

He didn't scold them, nor showed any kind rude feelings towards them 

Jesus also uses most convincing way to convince his disciples 

*4) Well settled disputes give rise to higher goals*

If the disputes are unsettled then unity breaks and worst things happen 

Jesus settled the dispute in such a way that it made them to think something higher and greater things for the good of the community 

*5) Disputes in my Life*

How do I face disputes in my life? 

How well I settle the disputes in my life or in my family life? 

Do I carry the disputes or settle them in best possible way? 

Do I seek the help from others in solving the issues? 

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*