Breaking the Word

4^th Week in Ord. Time, Friday – 04^th February 2022 — Gospel: Mark 6,14-29

Prophet Like Elijah

Since the reputation of Jesus has spread far and wide, and because of the successful mission of the twelve, many are confused about the identity of Jesus. They brought into their memory renowned personages of the recent past, John raised from the dead or of the remote past, Elijah returned from heaven. The narrative is told in a way that highlights the similarities between John the Baptist and Elijah. Herod, who fears John and resents him, resembles King Ahab, the ancient king of Israel, in his attitude towards Elijah. Herodias, who plots ways to be rid of John, resembles Jezebel, Ahab’s wife, who hated Elijah and wanted to put him to death. Like Elijah, the prophet before him, John spoke the truth to power and willingly suffered the consequences. This account demonstrates that John is the prophet like Elijah who heralded the coming of the Messiah. The account of John’s death is inserted into the gospel after the twelve are sent forth on mission and before their return. In this way, the gospel emphasizes the cost of discipleship and anticipates the ongoing mission of the disciples after the death of Jesus.

4^th Week in Ord. Time, Thursday – 03^rd February 2022 — Gospel: Mark 6,7-13

Not Bother about the Results

In today’s Gospel, Jesus sends his disciples out on the mission, and instructs them about the content of the mission and provides a strategy for the mission. The content combines word and action, proclamation and deed. The kingdom is not merely a spiritual enterprise, but connected intimately with one’s whole life. The strategy that Jesus gives is “detachment” from earthly things and “attachment” to Christ alone. Jesus knew that they would need food, clothing and money on their journey, but the apostles should depend on the charity of those they were serving. This kind of detachment is only possible when one is truly attached to Christ. When we trust in Christ, we are open to leave behind the things we want and instead we receive many good things which God wants to bless us with. Therefore, the job of the one who is sent is to engage in mission and not bother about the results. The results will be taken care of by God.