Daily Reflections - March 7,2013

DO WE BELIEVE IN DEMONS TODAY?

 

Yes, we do! However, we may not believe in them in the way they are presented in today’s Gospel. I believe in the devil and his various minions. Exactly how the devil manifests his evil and corrupt values and influences in today’s world, or at any time in human history, will always be subject to much debate and depend on one’s personal preferences and beliefs.

There is no doubt that there is more to sin than mere human choice. There is a level of manipulation of human choices going on behind the scenes, governed by the devil and his minions, that seeks to create an environment where evil, and consequently sin, will flourish. Here is an old saying that is very true — all that is necessary for evil to flourish is for good men to do nothing.

The miracle stories of Jesus expelling demons from the possessed are all very exciting, but perhaps the more important issue to reflect on would be: “What are we doing in the fight to do good?” Blaming demons for the evil in the world and not taking personal responsibility for our sinfulness and suffering is playing into the hands of the devil, as it distracts us from the very thing we have the most influence over, which is our own part in it. Herein lies the best way to rid the world of evil — each and every person should choose to do what he or she can to pursue good.

Do I believe in the devil? Yes, I do! Do I give the devil a lot of attention? No, I do not! Why? The best way to sideline the devil is to ignore him. He cannot influence our decisions unless we listen to his insinuations. Ignore the devil and he will flee far from you, looking for someone more willing to listen to his evil suggestions. It may seem like simple and naïve advice but it is not as naïve as it first sounds. Sometimes, the best wisdom is found in the simple answers to the most vexing questions. Fr. Steve Tynan, MGL

 

 

REFLECTION QUESTIONS: Do you ever allow yourself to be tempted into listening to the suggestions of the devil? How good are you at ignoring the devil’s advances?

 

Holy Spirit, help me to discern between good and evil in my life so that I would know when to listen to the suggestions around me and when to ignore them.