GREAT THINGS ENTERPRISE
CLAUDE BLACK
Mark 2:6
Introspection
One frequently hears the question, “What are you thinking?” There’s usually some clue that someone is “deep in thought,” as the phrase goes—a blank stare, furrowed brow, silence, or quizzical expression. Often, it’s best not to know what is running through someone’s neural cells, or it’s best for one not to put their pensive thoughts into words, at least not until they are carefully considered.
St. Mark said that among the crowd gathered outside the house where Jesus pronounced a paralytic’s sins forgiven, “But some of the scribes were sitting there and reasoning in their hearts.” (Mark 2:6) Luke said there were also teachers of the law present in the crowd “reasoning in their hearts.” (Luke 5:21) They had just heard a remarkable pronouncement—a person, at least in their thinking, had just pronounced the forgiveness of sin. According to these guardians of orthodoxy, only God could forgive sin.
These rigid disciplinarians were distinguishable by their apparel, their carefully trimmed beards, perfumed bodies, and expected deference. As they approached the house, it is likely that other spectators stepped aside for these dignitaries, so they could approach, hea,r and see what was taking place. Probably looking at one another with disapproving expressions, shaking their heads, maybe even scoffing, they were an identifiable bunch.
It is good to “reason in the heart.” Giving careful consideration before speaking or acting seems prudent. In this story, however, these spectators’ preconceived notions precluded objectivity. What are you thinking?
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