False vow
James 5:9–12; Psalm 103; Mark 10:1–12
James discourages us from false vows; he says, Let your “yes” be yes and your “no,” no, so that you will not fall under judgment (James 5:12). A vow is false when you already have the mentality not to keep it. A vow is false when it is influenced or done based on one’s condition. For example, those who make vows because they are in need of children. You hear things like, “Lord, if you give me a child, I will make him your priest.” That is a false vow; you only needed a child. God calls, chooses, and ordains his priests.
In the gospel, Jesus desires that we keep our vows. He renounces divorce. If we are sincere with our vows, then we will be patient in the days of suffering. This is not to condemn anyone but to challenge us to appreciate marital unity regardless of our condition.
Again, Jesus says, “Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.” To gather with Christ means to enter into his paschal mystery and identify with his true and definitive vocation. Baptism is the beginning of this gathering, and the Holy Eucharist is the culminating point of this gathering. Let us avoid everything that makes us scatter: quarrels, division, envy, and hatred. Sin scatters us. Holiness gathers us. Let us repent and gather with Jesus.
Let us pray.
Father, help us and save us. Fill us with your spirit, and help us prevail over the powers of darkness. Teach us to persevere and come to victory through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
