Readings: Hebrews 2:14-18, Ps. 105:1-4,6-9, Mark 1:29-39
“As soon as they left the synagogue, they entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. Now Simon's mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they told him about her at once. He came and took her by the hand and lifted her up.” (Mark 1:29-31)
When the Holy Mass ends, the priest says, “Go in peace,” “Go forth,” or “Glorify the Lord by your life.” Whatever formula the priest adopts, these words reveal that, having attended the Mass, we are sent out into the world as missionaries. The Mass does not end until we have accomplished the task of carrying God to the world.
- Like servants, we have come to Holy Mass to receive instructions and gifts from our Master, which are not meant for us alone but for all those we go out to meet. When Jesus left the synagogue, he entered the house of Simon and Andrew with James and John. When Jesus noticed Simon’s mother-in-law was sick with a fever, he laid hands on her, and the fever left her.
- As children of God, when we leave the Church, we are to realise that our time there was a time of spiritual impartation. We carry something very powerful with us when we leave. For instance, after receiving the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, we should never assume we are empty. We are supposed to take Jesus, whom we have received, to others who could not attend the Mass.
- We must consciously reach out to the sick, the oppressed, those held captive, those who do not yet believe in God, and those who are passing through some difficulty or another. With faith, we can lay our hands on people, talk to them, and preach to them, and we would be surprised at the outcome. A Christian who never reaches out to others is a Christian who is ignorant of what he or she has within.
- That evening, the whole city was gathered at the door of Peter’s house, and Jesus did not turn anyone away. He healed many who were sick and cast out many demons. However, very early in the morning, Jesus went to a lonely place to pray, that is, to refuel. This is one reason why Daily Masses are very important for growth in the spiritual life.
- When Peter found Jesus the next morning, Jesus said: “Let us go on to the next towns that I may preach there also…” To preach is to reach out; reaching out is a sign that we know who and what we are as children of God. Never be afraid of reaching out because you have Jesus on your side, who, as the book of Hebrews says: “is able to help those who are tempted because he himself has suffered and been tempted.” (Heb. 2:18).
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, always make us conscious of your presence within us. 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. (Wednesday of week 1 in Ordinary Time. Liturgical Colour: Green. Bible Study: Hebrews 2:14-18, Ps. 105:1-4,6-9, Mark 1:29-39).
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu