2nd Week in Ord. Time, Wednesday – 19th January 2021 — Gospel: Mark 3,1-6
Stretch out your hand
The man with the withered hand was just one of many who assembled in the synagogue to listen to Jesus. He mighty not have had any idea that he would be called forward to stand before the Pharisees. However, he was eager to listen to Jesus’ teaching. The political reasons were obviously high since the text states that the Pharisees immediately took counsel with the Herodians to put to death. The Pharisees had no political authority at the time of Jesus, although they were influential. Herodians were a group of wealthy people who were partisans of Herod Antipas. In the midst of conflicts, the man with the withered hand gains attention. He must have wondered how he became the centre of attention. Jesus merely asked him to stretch out his hand. Once he obeyed, his hand was restored. What a surprise and joy for the man. Following Jesus’ instructions, doing what he asks, we will be abundantly blessed.
