Reflections on the readings for the Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time (February 4, 2018): JB 7:1-4, 6-7: PS 147:1-2, 3-4, 5-6; 1 COR 9:16-19, 22-23; MK 1:29-39
MISSIO offers “Preaching Mission,” as a homily help, providing connections to mission from the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days.
Today’s Gospel reading describes what may well have been a typical day during the ministry of Jesus Christ. We find Him healing the sick, including Peter’s mother-in-law, casting out demons, and sharing His message of hope. Finally, after some rest, Jesus went off by Himself to pray. Then “Simon and those who were with Him pursued Him and on finding Him said, ‘Everyone is looking for You.’ He told them, ‘Let us go on to the nearby villages that I may preach there also. For this purpose have I come” (Mark 1:36-38).
Our Lord came among His people to give Himself completely in their service. Before the passion of Jesus, before He was crucified, and before He rose from the dead, He revealed the love of God through His words and actions. Christ spoke of hope and truth, mercy and forgiveness. He used His Divine power to heal those who were suffering and to combat evil in those who were possessed. Our Lord spent the years of His public life showing all He met that they were not alone, that He – that God – loved them as cherished children. Before they saw Jesus as the Savior of all people, His disciples recognized His profound compassion, peace and joy. Let us do the same.