This episode takes place after the cleansing of the Temple by Jesus. In this adversarial and inflamed atmosphere, which leads the High Priest to conclude: "... that it was better to have one person die for the people" (Jn 18: 14) we are surprised by a civil and respectful dialogue between Jesus and a scribe. The scribe asks his question and Jesus replies. Having listened to this the scribe responds: "You are right. Teacher." (Mk 12: 32) Jesus likewise takes in this response and reciprocates by saying: "You are not far from the kingdom of God." (Mk 12: 36) Often it is easier for Catholics to tolerate outsiders than to dialogue with fellow Catholics. Let us listen to Pope Francis who asks us to enact synodality as a principle of Church life. This leads us to listen to the Holy Spirit and to each other, as we accompany one another as missionary disciples in a fearful and polarized world. Synodality requires that we all take co-responsibility for the mission of the Church and live out the vocations and charisms that have been so richly poured out on us by the Holy Spirit. Let us not be distracted by past failures and sins because we have the power of the risen Christ to sustain us: "... but Jesus holds his priesthood permanently, because he continues forever. Consequently, he is able for all time to save those who approach God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them." (Heb 7: 24-25)
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