The wisdom tradition in the bible is filled with good, wise, advice that is based on human experience. Sirach warns us not to let arrogance and pride in wealth and power lead us to carelessness and corruption. The smug illusion of being in control and being above ordinary folks is deadly, but the deadliest attitude is taking God's mercy and compassion for granted and being nonchalant and indifferent about our sins. Sirach warns us that we may not have God's mercy and compassion forever and that the moment for turning to God is always'now'.

Mark uses shock language (not to be taken literally!) to drive home the point that when we become careless about our moral and spiritual life disaster will likely follow. Better to use radical therapy today - cutting off one's foot and removing one's eye if they are the problem - than to pay a bigger price later. Each day is a gift and once again we are told that we do not have forever. We should use each day to be as morally upright and spiritually attuned as we can - the proper moment is always'now'. Do not take God for granted or make light of God's mercy.