04th Sunday in Ordinary Time: January 28, 2024
Readings: Deuteronomy 18:15–20; Psalm 95:1–2, 6–9; 1 Corinthians 7:32–35; Mark 1:21–28
We are almost at the end of January. The days are passing by quite quickly. The new year that we began just a few weeks ago has already set us in a fast motion. An old adage says “Time flies when you’re having fun.” Mahatma Gandhi once said, “There is more to life than simply increasing its speed.” The readings on this fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time have to do with time. Time is in your basket. Whether it is Jesus speeding up his ministry in Capernaum even on a Holy Sabbath, the Saturday and healing a man with a demonic spirit or Moses conversing with God to get future prophets for his community, or Apostle Paul himself advising how best to serve the Lord either as single person or married man or woman. They are all saying that the future begins now. Therefore we must be ever ready to embrace.
1. Recognizing who and what through the Power of Christ's Presence
The Gospel writer Mark 1:21–28 recounts an incident where Jesus teaches in the synagogue in Capernaum and encounters a man possessed by an unclean spirit. People are amazed at Jesus's teaching authority, and capacity to give spiritual guidance from authoritative sources. The fascinating thing in Jesus' ministry is that the unclean spirit recognizes the God-man in Jesus. There is deep within us both Godliness and ungodliness. We too can perceive what is right and holy. More often we might not make the right and Godly choices, yet we can recognize what is best for us. The capacity to discern and see negative influences both external and internal are indeed the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
The unclean spirit recognizes in Jesus, Holy One of God. When Christ is in us and within us, the power of Christ resides in our lives. This dispels darkness, brings healing, builds communication, engages in the right relationships, gives strength, and transforms into better human beings. The work of Christ in our lives could bring a variety of gifts and graces including consolation and a sense of purpose in our lives. Catholic Theologian, Karl Rahner (1904-1984) in his book "Spirit in the Church" says that there are various sublime experiences of the Spirit in the New Testament that can be summarized as ‘mystical’: But all men who selflessly love their neighbor and experience God in that love are accorded ultimate salvation by God’s will.
2. Listening to the voice of God diligently
Moses was called the friend of God. Because he conversed with God like a friend. Deuteronomy 18:15–20 presents a prophecy where Moses speaks of a future prophet like himself whom the Israelites should listen to. He promises a divine intervention and a continuation of God's guidance for His people. This prophecy finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who not only resembles Moses in some aspects but surpasses him as the ultimate prophet and mediator between God and humanity.
One of the instructions that the Israelites had was to listen to the prophets and obey them. Because Prophets spoke the Word of God. We see King David obeying Prophet Nathan. Obedience to the spirit of God is an intrinsic part of every believer. The true discipleship involves not only hearing but also obeying His instructions. For a baptized Christian, in Jesus, one must find an ultimate guide, teacher, and leader who reveals God's truth and way. He is the mediator of a new covenant, reconciling humanity with God through His sacrifice on the cross. In other words, it is Jesus who builds our relationship with the divine.
3. Focus on the Lord with wholehearted service
Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 7:32–35 offers insights into the advantages of singleness and the undivided devotion that can be given to the Lord. Paul encourages believers to be free from the anxieties of married life so that they may focus more on the things of the Lord. Often our life is distracted by unnecessary anxieties, fears, and frustrations. Paul himself was such before his conversion, completely given to the things of the world with the aim to serve his former religion. But when God intervened in his life, he was completely free to take up the new challenge of being a follower of Resurrected Christ. Paul believes that both single and married life carries with them responsibilities and sacrifices and even surrendering personal desires. We cannot just shrug them away. Both are important but we cannot ignore God and His intervention in our lives.
For a Christian, the whole world is his or her monastery. And in this, one finds his or her salvation. We discern God's call in this life, amid daily chores and troubles, peace and fears, suffering and pain. It's a call to self-reflection and prayer, seeking clarity on the path that aligns with God's will. Some may be called to a life of singleness for focused service, while others may find their calling within the context of marriage. It all depends on each one of us either to be detached from worldly things or be attached to Christ or the other way around. We can allow ourselves to be consumed by the worries of this world or live in the peacefulness of God, believing that He is the master and knows how best to treat us. We pray that in relationships, work, and other commitments, let our aim solely be to bring glory to God in all that we do.
Questions for self-reflection
- How has my relationship with God evolved over the past year?
- In what ways have I actively sought spiritual growth and deepened my understanding of my faith?
- What self-care practices have I prioritized in my daily life?
- Am I nurturing my mental, emotional, and physical well-being effectively?
- How am I currently managing my time and priorities?
Prayer based on Psalm 95
Gracious and Almighty God,
We come before you with hearts filled with gratitude, for you are the great King above all gods. We enter your presence with thanksgiving, acknowledging your sovereignty over the heavens and the earth.
In awe, we bow down before you, our Maker, for you are our God, and we are the people of your pasture. Your hands have formed us, and your love sustains us. As we reflect on the majesty of your creation, the vastness of the seas, and the beauty of the mountains, our souls join in the chorus of praise that resounds throughout the universe.
Forgive us, Lord, for the times we have hardened our hearts. Soften our spirits and open our ears to hear your voice. May we not resist your guidance, but instead, respond with obedience and joy. You are the Rock of our salvation, and in your presence, we find refuge. Let the melodies of our praise be a sweet offering to you, our God and our Redeemer. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
- Olvin Veigas, SJ
2 comments:
In this reflections dear Father, your writing is captivating! I'm very much taken up the way you began the introduction for week's reflections on the word of God that remains as my favorite one, because these words makes me think differently and your writings inspires me alot. Thank you for everything.
Thank you dear fr. Olvin. May God bless your great contribution to highlight our minds, to understand the word of God.
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