February 1, 2009

"While it is wise to accept what we cannot change about ourselves, it is also good to remember that we are never too old to replace discouragement with bits and pieces of confidence and hope." -- Elaine N. Aron

Again this week Mark wastes no time in proclaiming Jesus' mission. Jesus has been baptized, picked some followers, and now he is in a synagogue where he teaches and casts out a demon from a man. The news of this healing will travel all over the countryside and begin the events that will lead to his crucifixion. And we are still in Chapter 1 of Mark's gospel.

The synagogue was where the community of Jews came together. If there were 10 Jewish families in an area, there had to be a synagogue. There was only one temple for praise and worship, and that was in Jerusalem. On the Sabbath, the Jewish men met in the synagogue, prayed, read Scripture, and discussed what it meant in their lives. Any responsible member could ask a question or teach on a particular topic. That is why the synagogue was the best place for Jesus to start his mission.

Jews and other peoples of the ancient world believed there were many demons and devils in the world and in each of us. They believed they were the cause of all the bad things that happened to them. Many ways were sought to get rid of them. In today's gospel, they are amazed that all Jesus has to do was speak, and the demon obeyed him. Jesus taught with authority; and in casting out the demon, he has declared war on evil. In its place he is bringing a message of holiness, wholeness, God's presence and love. He was not like the scribes who translated the law and made rules for everyone to obey. Jesus was a prophet they could believe in.

By our baptism, we are responsible to bring an awareness of God's presence and love to others, not only by our words but also by the example of our lives.