Gospel: Mark 2: 18-22
There is a value to using an item for as long as possible, patching and repairing it until it can no longer be used any longer. At the same time, we also have to recognize when it is time to finally accept the fact that the item can no longer be repaired and used. A new item must be purchased to replace the old one. We may have grown attached to that old item and are reluctant to toss it away, leery of the new one because it is unfamiliar and strange.
The patch of clothing and the wineskin analogy Jesus provides to us today are metaphors for the spiritual life. None of us has the same faith practices and understandings from when we were a child. We have adapted and adjusted our spiritual practices when something no longer works for us and a new practice and understanding are needed for us to continue to love God and our neighbor as we should, in order for us to practice love and mercy in the world.
In the life of faith many old things still work well for many people, and they should be retained. Those who have found new things helpful should not disdain those who still use older things that continue to help them love God and others. At the same time, those who still use the old should not scorn the new or those who have moved to other practices that help them love God and others. As long as our goal is to practice love and mercy to all, we should use whatever means - old and new- that help us achieve that end.
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