Inspired by Mark 9:42-50

Gracious Father, the words of scripture are not without harshness in relation to our sin. We are prone to lead others astray in our words and actions. Knowingly or unknowingly done, we are condemned. Millstones tied about the neck and sunk to the bottom of the sea is likened as a better portion for us than leading another away from your goodness. The removal of hand and foot is declared better than allowing them to strike a blow, grasp a stolen item, or covet a neighbor’s possessions. How barbaric the image of an eye being removed to save us from the pit of hell. Yet, you are holy and we…