Ord. Wk 1st January 16, 2019

Reflection on the WORD

Jesus in Prayer: In today’s Gospel, Jesus spent much energy and time curing and expelling demons, and proclaiming the Gospel.  Before dawn, Jesus went to a lonely place to pray.  If we truly want to live a Christ-centered life, we are also called to spend quality time in quiet prayer and solitude.

Mk 1:39-42

At evening, after sunset, they brought to Jesus all who were sick and those who were possessed by devils. The whole town came crowding round the door, and he cured many who were sick with diseases of one kind or another; he also drove out many devils, but he would not allow them to speak, because they knew who he was. 

In the morning, long before dawn, he got up and left the house and went off to a lonely place and prayed there. Simon and his companions set out in search of him, and when they found him they said, ‘Everybody is looking for you.’ 

He answered, ‘Let us go elsewhere, to the neighbouring country towns, so that I can proclaim the message there too, because that is why I came.’ And he went all through Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out devils.

Today's Pointers on God's Word

As you read the passage what words, phases or meanings caught your attention?

  • •In today’s Gospel, Jesus proclaims that His mission on earth is to bring eternal salvation to all mankind. 
  • •Jesus heals His disciples of all their physical afflictions and diseases because they took their troubles to Him with strong faith. He too will free us of all our bondages if we approach Him in faith.
  • •Do you want Jesus to be the Lord and Healer in your life? Approach Him with fervent hope and He will free you to serve Him joyfully by loving and serving others generously.