In the first reading, Jeremiah preaches in the Temple and admonishes his listeners about their hypocristy, their way of life contradicts their pious rituals and sacrifices, which are therefore meaningless in the eyes of the Lord.
Their sacrifices are tainted by disobedience to the covenant relationship and the blood of the innocent. He reminds them that God neither desires nor requests their sacrifice (Ps. 40); rather he asks for their justice and kindness (Micah 6:8). Protecting and caring for the anawim—the last, the lost, and the least — is more pleasing to the Lord than all their burnt offerings.
Like Jeremiah, Jesus too encounters stiff-necked people who accuse him of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebul when he exorcises a man who could not speak. His numerous exorcisms brought freedom to many who were troubled and oppressed by the work of evil spirits. Jesus’ words are strong; there is no room for neutrality. We have to examine our commitment to Christ and choose to gather with him or to scatter.
Finally, Jesus makes it clear that there are no neutral parties. We are either for Jesus or against him, for the kingdom of God or against it. If we disobey God's word, we open the door to the power of sin and Satan in our lives. If you want to live in freedom from sin and Satan, then our life and all we possess - must be occupied by Jesus where he is enthroned as Lord and Saviour. Lord may we love and serve you with all our hearts.
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