31 Jan
Mon
4th Week in Ordinary Time
Heb. 11:32-40
Ps. 31:19-23
Mk. 5:1-20
(Ps Wk IV)
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In today's Gospel we see the triumph of divine power over evil. This message is also captured and crystallised in Hebrews where the author expresses that salvation is fulfilled only through Our Lord Jesus Christ.

St Mark's Gospel shows us how the Gerasenes were powerless in their attempt to pin down the possessed man. However, when Jesus came near him, the legion of evil spirits or the destructive power in him was confronted and they screamed because of their inability to overcome the goodness in Jesus, who stood before the possessed man. They pleaded that they be sent into the herd of pigs. In Jewish thought these pigs were considered as unclean animals (see Deut. 14:8), and their loss was no loss to the Jews.

Indeed, it is for this that Jesus came announcing the Good News of the Kingdom of God. Here in all swiftness and speed we see God's kingdom being proclaimed, and the power of evil is no longer an overwhelming power that can destroy us but is now made to acknowledge its powerlessness before the power of God. The result is that this man who was possessed gains his freedom and above all, knows who he is and acknowledges his God.

Let us pray that we may recognize the power of Jesus in our lives, especially when we feel we have none to help us.



Lord Jesus, come set me free from all that binds me.

DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That those working in the Middle-East, may intensify their efforts for peace.
Elaboration

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