“HONEY FROM THE ROCK”
9th January 2018.
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TUESDAY, FIRST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
Reading 1: 1 Sam 1:9-20 Hannah’s prayer is answered by the Lord. She is blessed with the birth of a son, who was called Samuel, ‘for she asked the Lord for him.’
Res. Psalm:1 Sam 2:1,4-8 My heart exults in the Lord, as I rejoice in his saving help.
Gospel: Mk 1:21-28 Jesus delivers a man from an unclean spirit
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LISTENING TO THE VOICE OF GOD!
As we enter into this First Week of Ordinary Time, we are given the image of Jesus teaching in the synagogue. We see Jesus begins his public ministry in a synagogue. He taught with authority much greater than their usual teachers. He is one who teaches with a new authority.
Jesus exercised His authority in His teaching not so much because He wanted to, but because He had to. This is who He is. He is God and when He speaks He speaks with the authority of God. He speaks in such a way that people know His words have transforming meaning. His words effect change in people’s lives.
The gospel shows us this Jesus in action against Satan. It is extraordinary that the finest tributes to Jesus came from this enemy: “I know who you are, the holy One of God!” It may seem strange that the people call Christ’s driving out of Satan, a teaching. A completely new teaching in a spirit of authority! He gives orders to unclean spirits and they obey!” But that is God’s own way. All through sacred history God teaches mainly through his deeds..Even the unclean spirits recognized Jesus’ authority: “Why have You come? Have You come to destroy us? I know Who You are: the Holy One of God.”
This should invite each one of us to reflect upon the authority of Jesus in our lives. Do we see His words, spoken in Sacred Scripture, having an effect upon your life? Jesus desires to speak to you in your soul (synagogue) and be there speaking to you with authority. May we listen to Jesus with such openness and faith that Jesus himself will form in us the true image of himself. For remember, we become what our conception of Christ is. Let His words sink in and change your life.
Prayer: Lord, I open myself to You and Your voice of authority. Help me to allow You to speak with clarity and truth. As You do, help me to be open to allowing You to change my life. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen.