4th Sunday - B
Mark 1:21-28
Jesus Teaches with Authority
In the ancient world, calling a person by name gives the caller certain control and authority over the one who is called. That is the evil spirit's attempt. Yet, Jesus overcomes the evil spirit's power (1).
Witnessing this event, the people in the synagogue of Capernaum acknowledge that Jesus teaches with authority. Indeed, with authority and power both in words and actions, Jesus proclaims the Kingdom of God.
Yet, surprisingly, their acknowledgement of his authority only gets them as far as amazement. It is not enough to lead them to having faith in Jesus. Is Jesus just another outstanding rabbi for them?
In our world, there are many teachings that claim authority and power over others. Many people claim to have the truth. In fact, the influence of relativism makes us easily believe that everybody is entitled to his/her own truth.
What does the teaching of Jesus mean for me? Is he just another wise man? Does his teaching mean something special for me? Or is it just another claim to a truth?
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(1) Moloney, Francis J. The Gospel of Mark: a Commentary. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson, 2002; p. 54.
"The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us, and we saw his glory, the glory as of the Father's only Son, full of grace and truth." (John 1:14)
This blog intends to provide readers an opportunity to be nourished by the Word of God. It invites readers to read, reflect and pray the Gospel passage that they will hear during the upcoming Sunday's Liturgy. With the commentaries provided, readers have the possibility of studying and meditating on the Word. Finally, readers are invited to share their reflections, thus creating an on-line lectio divina/faith sharing group, and so sustaining each other in the faith and the love for God's Word.
About Me
- Fr. Dominic Danh Tran, SDB
- I am a Salesian of Don Bosco
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