BOASTING AND BRAGGING
James 4:13–17; Psalm 49; Mark 9:38–40
Boasting and bragging refer to the act of talking about oneself in an exaggerated way, just to impress or gain admiration from others. Today, Apostle James warns us against boasting. He says a man’s life is like a puff of smoke that appears for a moment and then disappears. Rather than boasting, let us subject our plans to the will of God. “If the Lord is willing, we will live and do this or that.” (James 4:15).
Why do we boast and brag? Apostle Paul (I Cor. 4:7) intensifies this question; he says, “Who makes you so superior? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not?”. Again, Prov. 27:1 says, “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.” Instead of boasting, let us be humble and modest.
In the gospel, John’s attempt to stop the unknown exorcist reveals a restrictive mindset. Jesus teaches that anyone working for the kingdom, even if not part of the inner circle, should be encouraged (v. 38–39).
Boasting and bragging can be a sign of insecurity and low self-esteem, as people may feel the need to constantly prove themselves to others. Do not boast about anything. If you want to be happy, be humble, real, and true.
Let us pray
Grant, we pray, almighty God, that, always pondering spiritual things, we may carry out in both word and deed that which is pleasing to you. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
