On this day, as Jesus begins speaking, a man with an unclean spirit (a demon) stands up and initiates a confrontation with Jesus. There are a couple of things to note about what this demon says and what that reveals. Those gathered around may have known Jesus as an inspiring teacher. But this wily demon knows His true identity. Do we know Jesus as intimately as this demon? It’s fascinating; like at a tennis match. Attention pings back and forth from the outspoken fellow to Jesus. It’s like nothing these people have heard before. This Jesus has authority. His words make a difference. Even the man with an unclean spirit is shocked and intrigued by Jesus. “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us?”
There are times when we may be inclined to settle into the company of the humble, calm, peaceful Jesus, shying away from the power and authority of Jesus except maybe when we’ve had a day of defeat and been at cross-purposes with the world. Then we take great hope and comfort in the power of Jesus. We identify with the sentiments of the “cursing” Psalms. If you are anything like me, you call on Jesus, on God our Father, the Spirit, whoever will listen to our pitiful story. We ask God to raise a hand and make the world stand still until we catch our breath. We grab our “beads” (rosary), do some slow breathing trying to quiet ourselves. But nothing’s working, that is, until we recall what Jesus said to the demon: “Be quiet!” “Come out!”
The demon recognizes and identifies Jesus as God in flesh (Holy One of God). Listen closely – it’s also clear that the demon recognizes Jesus as a threat – as the One who has the power to destroy the forces of evil. When Jesus gets a chance to speak, the demon can only respond in one way – complete obedience.
We do well to remember that God is in control. Those who were attentive that day Mark describes saw Jesus’ power over the demon. Like the disciples in the storm, they heard the commanding voice of Jesus say: “Be Quiet!” (Is he talking to the demon? Or to me?) “Be quiet!” Be AMAZED!
~Reflection by Sister Roberta Bailey, OSB
Surprise! February is just around the corner … Madri Gras, Valentine’s Day and Ash Wednesday on February 13 / 14
Enjoy the celebrations and sit with the Spirit to do prep work to prepare for a spiritually profitable Lenten experience. God bless!
First Reading: Deuteronomy 18:15-20 Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 7:32-35
Gospel: Mark 1:21-28
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