Beyond Borders - Sharing the Gospel through Duty, Sacrifice, and Adaptation

05th Sunday in Ordinary Time: February 04, 2024

Readings:  Job 7:1–4, 6–7; Psalm 147:1–6; 1 Corinthians 9:16–19, 22–23; Mark 1:29–39

 To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/KgGEcVv8X7Q

"I have no time" is the phrase often we hear. We are restless. Silence, solitude, and solicitude are missing from our busy lives. Something or the other distracts us continuously. There is no rest for our mobiles or for our eyes. Emptiness surrounds us. We look for fullness and abundance in life. Overwhelming activities and other issues fill our lives. Either we live as if we do not exist or believe that only we exist in this world. In such a busy schedule finding God is necessary. Despite keeping ourselves occupied, if we could spare some time for good things and those things which give glory to God then all our efforts are worthwhile. God sees us not from men's lenses. The liturgical readings of today are challenging. If Prophet Job is restless and sees no meaning in his life, St Paul finds completeness in Jesus Christ alone. And Jesus with his busy schedule finds time for everyone and brings all of them to a world of healing, liberation and peace.

1. The Healing Touch and the Call to Mission

The Gospel of Mark should be called the gospel of urgency. When we look at the passage Mark 1:29–39, we find Jesus everywhere. We witness here a powerful sequence of events that reveal the compassion and purpose of Jesus Christ. This passage takes us to the town of Capernaum, where Jesus engages in acts of healing, prayer, and mission. The scene begins with Jesus entering the house of Simon and Andrew, and immediately we see the compassionate nature of our Savior. Simon's mother-in-law is sick with a fever, and Jesus responds not with indifference but with a healing touch. In this simple yet profound gesture, we witness the depth of Christ's love and his desire to bring wholeness to those in need.

This healing is not just a physical restoration; it symbolizes the transformative power of Christ in our lives. Like Simon's mother-in-law, we too may experience moments of weakness, feverish with the burdens of life. Jesus invites us to bring our vulnerabilities before him, trusting in his healing touch to restore us. Following this healing, the news about Jesus spreads throughout the town, and people from all walks of life bring their sick and possessed to him. In the midst of the clamor, Jesus maintains a deep connection with the Father through prayer. This exemplifies the importance of solitude and communion with God even in the midst of busy ministry. As followers of Christ, we are reminded to cultivate a prayerful life, seeking guidance and strength from the source of all power.

2. Agents of goodness and mercy

Jesus does not allow himself to be confined to the comfortable surroundings of Capernaum. Despite the overwhelming demand for his presence, he tells his disciples that he must go to other towns to proclaim the message. This underscores the central mission of Jesus – to preach the good news of the Kingdom of God.  In our lives, we are called not only to receive healing but also to be agents of healing in the world. The Gospel challenges us to move beyond our comfort zones, to embrace a mission-oriented mindset, just as Jesus did. Our homes, workplaces, and communities are opportunities for us to share the transformative love of Christ.

St Paul, who came to know the resurrected Jesus becomes a powerful instrument in preaching the Gospel of our Lord. In 1 Corinthians 9:16–19, 22–23, the apostle Paul passionately expresses his sense of obligation to share the Gospel. He is highly motivated with his heart set on a mission, which goes beyond the known boundaries both physical and non-physical. Nothing can stop him. His intense love and an ardent desire to serve God in whatever way possible take him to various places and land him in tough situations.  His sense of duty is not driven by personal gain or pride but by a deep understanding of the transformative power of the message he carries. 

3. Becoming Mission-Driven Agents of the Gospel

St Paul emphasizes that his motivation to be the active apostle of Christ is not financial gain but fulfilling the trust of God that has been placed in him. The reward he seeks is the satisfaction of faithfully sharing the Gospel, unburdened by personal interests.  He is highly motivated to do things for Christ and Christ alone. He writes, "To the weak, I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some." (1 Corinthians 9: 22–23). St Paul had a great capacity to connect with diverse audiences because of his brilliant audacity to contextualize the Gospel to the people. He meets people where they are, understanding their struggles and challenges. He communicates the Gospel intentionally, recognizing the unique needs of those around him.

As we reflect upon these very fascinating and challenging themes, the Word of God invites us to open our hearts to receive the healing touch of Jesus in our vulnerabilities. The example of St Paul calls us to reflect our own sense of obligation to share the Gospel. Let us prioritize prayer and communion with God, drawing strength from the source of our faith. Finally, may we respond to the call of mission, recognizing that the good news of Christ is not meant to be kept within the confines of our own lives but shared with others, bringing healing and hope to a world in need. May these reflections inspire us to embrace the call to share the Good News with boldness, humility, and a genuine love for those around us.

Questions for self-reflection

1. What compels me to share the Gospel with others? Is it a deep conviction of its transformative power, a sense of duty, or something else?
2. Can I adapt my message to connect with diverse audiences, recognizing that the Gospel is for all people? 
3. What role does prayer play in my mission to share the Gospel? How can I deepen my communion with God to draw strength and guidance for this purpose?

Prayer based on Psalm 147

Heavenly Father,

We come before you with hearts full of gratitude, acknowledging your greatness and the boundless love you pour upon us. You are the God of restoration and healing, the One who gathers the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. In the beauty of your holiness, we stand amazed at your sovereignty over the heavens and the earth. We praise you for your power and might, for your tender care that sustains us in every season of life. 

As we lift our voices in praise, may our lives reflect the awe and reverence due to your holy name. You are the One who gathers the outcasts, the downtrodden, and we find our refuge in your unfailing love. Lord, you delight not in the strength of our abilities but in those who fear you and hope in your steadfast love. As we place our trust in you, continue to reveal your grace and mercy, transforming our lives for your glory. In the name of our Savior, Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.

- Olvin Veigas, SJ

February 03, 2024