Commentary

15th Sunday - B
Mk 6:6b-13

Who Is Qualified to Preach the Gospel?

In the previous weeks, the Gospel passages from Mark portray Jesus in his public ministry. Jesus is constantly on the move, preaching, teaching, and healing to both Jews and gentiles.

Jesus has called the Twelve to follow him in his ministry. Mark says in 3:14 - 15, “He appointed twelve (whom he also named apostles) that they might be with him and he might send them forth to preach, and to have authority to drive out demons.” They have learned from what they hear and see, and now, they seem ready to be sent out.

Yet, if we look back over the events since their call to now, we see that the Twelve are not really ready yet. Three weeks ago, we learn of their lack of faith when their boat struggle in the storm. Jesus then reprimands them, “Do you not yet have faith?” (4:40). And even though they have witnessed the power of Jesus’ words and actions, they show no understanding when Jesus heals the woman with hemorrhages. They retort at Jesus, "You see how the crowd is pressing upon you, and yet you ask, 'Who touched me?'" (5:31)

They do not seem ready or qualified to preach, for sure not as Jesus does. And yet, he sends them out.

How about me? Jesus is sending me today. Do I wait until I am qualified or my faith is ready?