Breaking the Word

2^nd Week in Ord. Time, Wednesday – 19^th 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.

2^nd Week in Ord. Time, Tuesday – 18^th January 2022 — Gospel: Mark 2,23-28

Eyes Fixed on Kingship

As often happens in the Gospels, Jesus was challenged by the Pharisees because he didn’t observe the Sabbath as demanded by the law. In today’s Gospel, his response had a special twist. Instead of encouraging the Pharisees to be more humble or have more faith, Jesus compared himself to David. Because David made an exception to the law for himself and his companions by virtue of his kingship. This comparison was shocking to the Pharisees. Nevertheless, Jesus recalled this event deliberately. He wanted to reveal to the Pharisees and his disciples that he is far greater than David. Jesus became the Eucharistic fulfillment, of which David was only meant to point to as a prophet. David was a preparation for the Jesus the true king, who would surpass him infinitely in power and authority. Thus, Jesus was using this occasion to reveal his Kingship, to reveal his authority, and to reveal himself also as Lord of the Sabbath.