What Do We Do in the Face of Evil?
This week in the gospel of Mark 1:21-28 we see Jesus freeing a man by driving out the evil one. This scene reminds us of the existence of the evil one and that Christ has overcome evil.
The greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn’t exist.
– Charles Baudelaire
Fulton Sheen warned that very few people believe in the existence of devil these days; they think it is just a symbol. He said this belief provided a safe space for the evil one to plot and scheme to gain souls through his subtle ways.
“Very few people believe in the devil these days, which suits the devil very well. He is always helping to circulate the news of his own death… Satan has very little trouble with those who do not believe in him; they are already on his side.”
Fulton Sheen warned that “From now on the struggle will be… for the souls of men.”
Today, we may not see demonic possessions occurring in our midst but the characteristics of the evil one is evident in the world. Fulton Sheen identified three characteristics of the diabolic- nudity, violence and division. What is considered diabolic is pervasive and is becoming a norm in our world today.
What do we do in the face of evil?
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good (Rom 12:21)
The battle against the evil one is long and difficult but Christ has overcome evil. Jesus uses his authority to empower and liberate the man from the clutches of the evil one. As Christ followers, we too have the authority to nurture and empower those around us. Jesus uses his authority to give life while the evil one subdues.
Evil draws its power from indecision and concern for what other people think. Pope Benedict XVI
Jesus has shown us the way:
Jesus himself has shown us by his own example that prayer and fasting are the first and most effective weapons against the forces of evil. Pope John Paul II
We have also been given a weapon – the rosary.
Mary joins us, she fights at our side. She supports Christians in the fight against the forces of evil. Especially through prayer, through the rosary. Hear me out, the rosary… Do you pray the Rosary each day? Pope Francis
“Love the Madonna and pray the Rosary….Rosary is the weapon against the evils of the world today. All graces given by God pass through the Blessed Mother.” Padre Pio
Do you want to outwit the devil? Never let him catch you idle. Work, study, pray, and you will surely overcome your spiritual enemy. – St. John Bosco