The Belzeebul controversy in the Gospel reading today shows how Jesus defended Himself against the serious and dangerous charge of the Pharisees. The example of a divided kingdom and a divided household clearly explains that the accusation was simply unfounded. The argument in Luke11:19 and 20 reveals the existence of the power of God and verse 23 is a prophetic warning that people ought to take sides in view of Jesus' struggles against evil.

As Christians, we cannot be neutral in the face of the evil forces of sin, injustice, prejudices, exploitation of the poor because one who is not against the forces of evil is against Jesus. Similarly, one who does not fight against divisive forces joins hands with the evil one. This is indeed a serious matter to consider.

In Galatians 3:12 "the law does not depend on faith", Paul explains to the Galatians that the precepts of law have nothing to do with faith. In Galatians 3:13-14, we see how Christ's death on the cross had indeed freed enslaved humanity from the law and its curse (Gal.5:1).

Christ was crucified 'through the law', He died to the law and in His death we died vicariously (2 Cor. 5:14). We just cannot remain passive 'good citizens' while our conscience tells us to bring about justice and peace. Does not this echo what is said in the Beatitudes?