Gospel in Art: Master, we saw a man casting out devils in your name

Charity Relieving Distress, by Gainsborough Dupont, 1784 © Indianapolis Museum of Art, Newfields

Source: Christian Art

Gospel of 22 May 2024
Mark 9:38-40

John said to Jesus, 'Master, we saw a man who is not one of us casting out devils in your name; and because he was not one of us we tried to stop him.' But Jesus said, 'You must not stop him: no one who works a miracle in my name is likely to speak evil of me. Anyone who is not against us is for us.'

Reflection on the painting

Today's reading offers us an interesting insight into the minds of the disciples. They have just witnessed an exorcism performed by someone they don't know. Not only that, but the stranger performed the exorcism in Jesus' name. There is an air of superiority about the disciples: only they should be allowed to perform such miracles. To rub salt into the wound, earlier in this chapter of Mark (chapter 9) we read how the disciples attempted to cast a demon out of a boy and were unsuccessful. Now a perfect stranger casts out a demon successfully, with authority, and using the name of Jesus. The disciples are annoyed. Their pride was hurt.

In our work places, parish churches or even charitable endeavours, we sometimes fall into that same trap of 'feeling entitled', believing our role or way of doing things is superior to that of others. We do it better (or that is what we think). We dismiss suggestions from those less involved, thinking, "Who are they to tell us?" This attitude blinds us to the humility of recognising everyone's equal importance in Jesus' eyes. Each person, especially in the context of doing charity work, has a significant contribution to make. Valuing these diverse contributions will simply make for better results.

'Charity Relieving Distress' is a painting by Gainsborough Dupont, who was the nephew and pupil of the renowned English painter Thomas Gainsborough. The painting depicts a scene of charity and compassion, with three woman distributing alms to the needy. One of the three is in a more prominent role, actually handing out the food whilst the two are watching on. All three have their roles to play, working together harmoniously to help the needy. The painting composition emphasises the benevolent act of giving, as the poor family is depicted with expressions of gratitude and relief. The painting captures a moment of kindness and generosity... often much more effective when done in a true spirit of humility.

LINKS

Gospel in Art: https://christian.art/
Today's Reflection: https://christian.art/daily-gospel-reading/mark-9-38-40-2024/