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“Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.” Luke 11:23

It is often easier to remain neutral on controversial topics rather than take a clear stance. Issues such as abortion are among the most divisive in public discourse. However, there are many other areas of life that provoke intense debate, particularly when moral principles are involved. War, politics, contraception, the definition of marriage, and economic policies elicit strong opinions that can lead to discord. As followers of Christ, neutrality is not an option when it comes to clear moral truths.

While not all debated issues are equally straightforward in terms of moral clarity, the Church, through the Gospel and its teachings, provides us with guidance on many critical matters. On fundamental issues—such as the dignity of human life from conception to natural death and the sanctity of marriage—God’s law is clear. In these cases, we must stand with our Lord.

Jesus’ words in today’s Gospel present a direct challenge: “Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.” This indicates that failing to uphold and defend God’s law is not a neutral act; it is, in fact, opposing His will. Choosing sides can be difficult because standing with Christ often invites criticism, judgment, or even hostility from those who hold different views. Yet neutrality in these matters is a form of negligence, which Jesus identifies as a sin in today’s Gospel.

The passage begins with Jesus casting out “a demon that was mute, and when the demon had gone out, the mute man spoke, and the crowds were amazed.” The man’s muteness, caused by a demon, symbolizes our own temptation to remain silent in the face of evil. Though the man in the story was physically possessed, we often experience spiritual muteness, caused by fear, intimidation, or confusion—tactics employed by the enemy to silence us. These same demonic forces work tirelessly to prevent us from proclaiming the truth of the Gospel.

Jesus then uses the image of a “strong man fully armed” guarding his palace, which represents satan and his demonic forces. This strong man seems invincible, guarding his domain with power. However, “when one stronger than he attacks and overcomes him, he takes away the armor on which he relied and distributes the spoils.” Jesus is the “one stronger” who has already defeated satan and all his works. No matter how powerful evil may seem, it is powerless before God’s might. Thus, we should never fear standing for the truth, even when opposition arises from society, family, or friends. As followers of Christ, we are called to speak with courage, clarity, and love, trusting in God’s ultimate victory.

That being said, not every situation requires vocal confrontation. We must discern when God calls us to speak and when silence is an act of trust in His timing. There are times when entering heated arguments might not be fruitful or could cause further division. However, silence must come from discernment, not fear or a desire to avoid conflict. If our silence is motivated by demonic lies or intimidation, then it is a failure to stand with our Lord.

Reflect today on situations in which you might be tempted to remain silent or neutral out of fear. While anger and hostility are not the solution, avoidance is equally problematic. Charity demands that we speak the truth with love, even when it is difficult. Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit, discerning whether your silence is rooted in wisdom or in fear and intimidation. Commit yourself to standing with our Lord in every situation, confident that He is stronger than any evil you might face.

Lord of unfathomable might, Your power is greater than every lie and demonic temptation. You are able to overcome every sin I struggle with and to free me from fear. Please give me the courage never to remain neutral or silent when moral clarity is required. May I always be with You and help gather people to Yourself. Jesus, I trust in You.

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Thursday of the Third Week of Lent - No Neutrality