BIBLE READING: Numbers 15,16; Mark 6:1-28
“Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Judea, and Simon?. and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him” – Mark 6:3 (KJV)
Offence is something we have to guard against. It can destroy relationship and rob one of great blessings. Offence can block ones way and deny one access to one’s destiny helper. One can be offended with himself, with God, with ones parents and with other people. The scripture warns of the certainty and the consequences of offence. “Then said he unto the disciples, it is impossible but that offenses will come; but woe unto him, through whom they come: it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones” – Luke 17:1-2 (KJV).
Anything that is certain to come should be prepared for or watch out for so one will not fall victim of it. Offence could be so potent that it could blind one to the virtures and good sides of the others. The strict measure Jesus recommended for offence shows the seriousness he attached to it. For a millstone to be hung to ones neck is bad enough, to further talk of the person being cast into the sea is a real tragedy.
Offence, however, could be avoided and can be possibly managed in such a way as to avoid or prevent a devastating outcome. We need the help of the word of God and the Holy Spirit to manage offence when it comes or to avoid picking offence. Over-familiarity, envy, and spiritual blindness can cause offence. The text we are considering shows the people offended because of their knowledge of Jesus family and background. How could a carpenters son speak with such wisdom and do such mighty works? Rather than rejoice with his family and appreciate that one of their own is doing well, they became offended. Are you offended by the achievements or success of others? You need God to help you to deal with offence.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Keep me from offence.
Rev. Vincent Diolu