Breaking the Word

Mark, the Evangelist, Thursday – 25^th April 2024 – 1 Peter 5,5-14; Mark 16, 15-20

Drawing Others Through Witness

John Mark was the son of Mary of Jerusalem (Acts 12,12). His mother was highly esteemed in the early church, and her house served as a meeting place for Christians in Jerusalem. He was a cousin of Barnabas (Col 4,10), and the author of the second Gospel. As an early convert, he accompanied Barnabas and Paul on their first missionary journey. For some reason, Mark abandoned them on the mission and returned to Jerusalem (Acts 13,13). In the second missionary journey, Paul and Barnabas disagreed about taking Mark with them. However, Mark continued with Barnabas on a mission to Cyprus (Acts 15,39-41). Later, Mark reconciled with Paul and was imprisoned with him in Rome (Philem 24; 2 Tim 4,11). Mark was also a good friend of Peter and he called him “my son” (1 Pet 5,13). When Peter was released from prison by angel, he rushed to Mark’s house (Acts 12,12-17). Mark was the interpreter for Peter and wrote down Peter’s teaching in Mark’s Gospel. After the death of Peter, Mark went to Alexandria in Egypt and was the first bishop there.

Today’s Gospel is the conclusion of the Gospel according to Mark, with the command of the Risen Lord to the disciples to proclaim the good news to all nations. Jesus’ disciples and apostles will speak his words and perform God’s wonderful deeds as they announce and evangelize. They are challenged to go beyond their fear and with confidence trusting in the power of the Lord. The Risen Lord will accompany them everywhere and their witness will draw all peoples to the Lord.

4^th week in Easter Time, Wednesday – 24^th April 2024 – Acts 12,24-13,5; Jn 12,44-50

Inspiration for Discernment  

In the first reading, there is a transition of ministry from Peter to that of Barnabas and Saul. The community at Antioch had many gifted people who are prophets and teachers. As the early believers gathered in worship and fasts, they were aware of the power and presence of the Holy Spirit in their midst. It is during this time; they experience the guidance and direction of the Holy Spirit in choosing and commissioning Barnabas and Saul among others. They were set apart for a mission to Asia Minor. From then on, they go on several missionary journeys to bring the Word of God throughout the Mediterranean. The inspiration of the Holy Spirit to choose some people are called, “the discernment of the Holy Spirit”.  The presence of the Holy Spirit will be manifested if the believing community gathers in prayer and be open to its direction and guidance. The Holy Spirit will continue to guide the Church today as it did in the times of the Apostles, whenever the Church prays for discernment and guidance.