Readings: Ecclesiasticus 1:1-10, Ps. 93:1-2,5, Mark 9:14-29
“When he had entered the house, his disciples asked him privately, ‘Why could we not cast it out?’ He said to them, ‘This kind can come out only through prayer.’” (Mark 9:28-29)
In today’s Gospel passage, a man brought his demon-possessed son to Jesus’ disciples for healing. A few days ago, we read that Jesus empowered his disciples before sending them out to preach. Mark tells us that Jesus “gave them authority over unclean spirits.” (Mark 6:7). Hence, Jesus was disappointed in the disciples for failing to cure the boy. “O faithless generation, how long will I be with you?” What does this teach us?
- This story highlights the battle against evil that we constantly face. St. Paul teaches us: “For we are not contending against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12).
- Be prepared always. You do not know when you will engage in a spiritual battle. Again, as St. Paul would say: “Therefore, take the whole armour of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” (Ephesians 6:13). No one knows when the “evil day” will come. Like the five wise virgins, we must carry an extra jar of oil to keep our lamps burning brightly. (Matthew 25:1-13).
- It is better to pray than to command. The disciples asked Jesus in private why they could not cast out the demon, and Jesus responded: “This type can only be driven out by prayer.” We all have authority over evil spirits and demons. St. John says: “Little children, you are of God, and have overcome them; for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4). However, even with our authority, we must never neglect the discipline of prayer and fasting.
- This episode highlights the love and responsibility of parents. The father of the boy carried his son to look for a solution. His presence at the scene was instrumental to the boy’s healing. In Mark’s Gospel, we read how Jarius begged Jesus to heal his daughter. We also read how the Syrophoenician woman pleaded with Jesus until her daughter was healed. As a parent, never stop praying for your children. Jesus would never forsake a father or mother who cries to him on behalf of their child.
- Faith is an all-important weapon in the fight against demons. The boy’s father cried: “Lord, I believe, help my unbelief!” Jesus said: “All things are possible to him who believes.” Everything is possible if you believe. Did Jesus’ disciples believe when they attempted to cast out the demon? Were they expecting the boy to get well? Check your expectations before, during and after prayer. If you don’t believe you will get what you are asking for, you haven’t started praying.
- In today’s first reading, we learn that “wisdom was created before all things and prudent understanding from eternity.” No wonder scientists reveal that nature is intelligent. We also learn that “the source of wisdom is God’s word in the highest heaven, and her ways are the eternal commandments.” In other words, we do not act wisely by ignoring God’s words or disobeying His commandments.
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, help us to apply our faith wisely. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Monday of week 7 in Ordinary Time, Liturgical Colour: Green. Bible Study: Ecclesiasticus 1:1-10, Ps. 93:1-2,5, Mark 9:14-29).
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu