Mk 1:21–28
Jesus went into the town of Capernaum and Jesus taught in the synagogue on the sabbath day. The people were astonished at the way he taught, for he spoke as one having authority and not like the teachers of the Law.
It happened that a man with an evil spirit was in their synagogue, and he shouted, “What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are: you are the Holy One of God.” Then Jesus faced him and said with authority, “Be silent, and come out of this man!” The evil spirit shook the man violently and, with a loud shriek, came out of him.
All the people were astonished, and they wondered, “What is this? With what authority he preaches! He even gives orders to evil spirits and they obey him!” And Jesus’ fame spread throughout all the country of Galilee.
REFLECTION
READ: The first reading tells that Yahweh will send a prophet who will speak all that he has been commanded, who will speak in God’s name. The gospel would say that this prophet is Jesus, who speaks with authority, giving orders even to evil spirits to come out of a person. Those “prophets” speaking but not following God’s command will never succeed. The second reading tells about remaining a virgin so as to serve the Lord in holiness of body and spirit, a service dedicated with love of God and neighbors.
REFLECT: Jesus, our best example as a prophet, continues to order the evil spirit to come out from us through our brothers and sisters who admonish us to become good and those who are denouncing evil. How do we exercise our role as “prophets” today? Do we nurture the culture of truth amidst corruption and politicking?
PRAY: Father, teach me to live this prophetic role that I am sharing with your begotten Son. Let me speak the truth even when it hurts; let me sow peace when there is violence or division; let me sow love as you fill me with your love and understanding. Amen
ACT: Live with genuine concern for others, expressing care, and showing to people that they are valued, loved and appreciated for who they are. Say to your parents or children: I love you!
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