19 Jan
Thu
2nd Week in Ordinary Time
1 Sam. 18:6-9
19:1-7
Ps. 56:1-2,8-13
Mk. 3:7-12
(Ps Wk II)
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The Gospel which we read today is part of the synthesis of the first part of Mark's Gospel, where the evangelist emphasizes the most important aspects of the dynamics of the message. Today, we read how Mark presents the enthusiasm of the crowd which follows Jesus and how they are grateful for the saving signs which He has realized. The "enthusiasm and the following" are for Mark manifestation of the gratitude of the crowd and also signs of how efficient have been the powers of Jesus. Besides, this narrative manifests the beautiful personal concern and relationship characteristics of the message of Jesus.

Together with the testimony of the crowd Mark presents the testimony of the unclean spirits. These spirits are symbols of the enemies power of God which had to be destroyed by the Messiah. The fact that the spirits are present admitting defeat affirms clearly how efficient is the Messianic message of Jesus. Both acclamations: of the people and of the spirits should be understood as expressions of the saving power of the work and mission of Jesus.

The following of Christ, the conscious gratitude, the proclamation of His victory manifested in this personal contact with the Lord are some aspects of our response to His message. What is my answer to the action of Christ in my life?



Yes, Lord, You are the Son of God! You are everything in my life and work.

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 the effort to bring about the full communion of Christians may foster reconciliation and peace among all the peoples of the earth.
Elaboration

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