2nd Week in Ordinary Time (Year A) : Saturday 21st January 2023

As we enter the scene of today’s Gospel reading of Mark, we may experience the feelings and thoughts that come from Jesus, His family members, and the crowd that gathered around Him. We may probably get a glimpse into the family of Jesus and their reaction to His ministry.

Mark begins Chapter 3 with Jesus healing a man with a withered hand in a synagogue on the Sabbath, confronting the Pharisees who later plotted to destroy Him. Nevertheless, large crowds followed Him seeking healing, and those with unclean spirits worshipped Him as “Son of God”. By the time Jesus reached home, a huge crowd had gathered, making it impossible for them to eat.

Jesus’ relatives probably found all these happenings out of control, not only upsetting the norm of society but also posing challenges to the Jewish law and tradition. They were determined to remove Him from the public eye. Jesus was perceived as ‘out of his mind’- which comes from the Greek root word existemi – which means to be mentally displaced or crazy.

Have you ever been in a situation where a family member finds your decision absurd and disapproves of what you are doing? Let’s pray for the courage to remain faithful to do His will in spite of misunderstanding and rejection from others, especially from our loved ones. Let us also remain sober in our discernment of others as well.

Lord, guide my steps with Your Word.