There is always a temptation for us Christians (and for people of other religions) to feel superior to those who are not members. So today we see a disciple of Jesus complaining that a man, who did not belong to their group, was casting out demons in Jesus' name. By now, the disciples were doing the same work as Jesus - healing and driving out evil spirits. So they resented it when they saw an outsider doing the same thing. Jesus would have none of it. "No one who works a miracle in my name is likely to speak evil of me." Another way we might put it would be to say, wherever there is true love and service, God is there. He is not confined to any religious group. "Whoever is not against us is for us." At the same time, Jesus warns of a greater danger within the community. One of the worst things that can happen to a disciple is to behave in a way which blocks an outsider coming to know, accept and love the Way of Jesus. The word 'scandal' means a stumbling block. It is very easy for any of us to be such a stumbling block to our children, our neighbours and other people with whom we come in contact. As Jesus says, it would be better to die of drowning that cause a weak person to fall and behave immorally. We will avoid such dangers if we remember the commandment always to love others as God, through Jesus, loves us.