“For you say that it is by Beelzebul that I drive out demons. If I, then, drive out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your own people drive them out? Therefore they will be your judges.” Luke 11:18-19

Anyone else get a bit confused with this passage? Jesus does one of the most amazing things, driving a demon out of someone, and while many were amazed, there were the Pharisees in the corner doubting again. They were even going so far as to claim that Jesus was working under the influence of Beelzebul (the enemy) to do such things, basically saying that this miracle wasn't from God. 

Jesus takes them down a notch or two with His words, but it can also be confusing for us reading them now. We’ve got Beelzebul, demons, a strong man guarding his palace, and even the finger of God being mentioned. What’s an average Catholic in 2024 supposed to do with all of that? 

Jeff Cavins, a Catholic bible scholar brings up the point that the Pharisees are under the influence of Satan and that is why they try to cast these doubts on Jesus. His claim that the Kingdom of God is upon them and that whoever is not with me is against me, is driving the point home that they are listening to the wrong voices. If you really want to hear more about what Jesus has to say about the Pharisees and their allegiance, read John 8:41-44. Here is just a snippet, “You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires.” Ouch! Don’t hold back, Jesus. Tell us what you really think. 

But how does this relate to you and me? Aren’t we trying to listen to Jesus and follow Him? Yes, we hope so. Still, Lent is a time to continue taking a flashlight into the dark corners and make sure that we pay attention to any cobwebs still lingering around. We can often get caught up, just as the Pharisees did, in thinking we are doing okay, living a good life, trying to follow the Lord. We pray, get to Mass, and do our good deeds. But if we are not careful, we can lose sight of the fact that the enemy can make us forget to be humble and we start to rest where we are without striving to learn and grow every day. Remember, you can’t stay in one place on a pole for long. You’re either climbing up or sliding down. So, be careful. 

Reflection Questions: Where in my life can I be more like a Pharisee than a disciple? Am I getting too comfortable in my faith and thinking I know enough or am good enough? How do I challenge myself to continue to grow and make sure I’m listening to my Father in heaven and not the father of this world?

Prayer: Jesus, You had some tough words for the people today. Help me to listen carefully and be unafraid to seek out those places within me where I am not fully Yours yet. I want to hear only Your voice. I want my house to be united with You and not divided. Amen.