Fourth Sunday of Ordinary Time- Gospel Reflection

In today’s Gospel we hear from the Gospel according to Mark about Jesus teaching in the Synagogue and being provoked by a man with an unclean spirit. We hear Jesus described as a man with authority over not only the law but unclean spirits. 

It wouldn’t have been uncommon for people in this time to be accused of being “possessed” or “under the influence of a bad spirit”. People who lived against the law or broke the law would see this as their punishment. What they didn’t understand is the mercy of God, he does not punish but wishes to heal.

God loves all of his children with an agape love. Agape is the Greek term used by early theologians to describe the unconditional love only possible by God for us. It’s important to put into perspective what that means in relationship to this passage.

Jesus spoke with the authority on behalf of someone who loves you more than anything or anyone else can. That means everything taught by Jesus not only should be seen as authoritative but as love.

Christians have been labeled as the bearers of “tough love” as the ones who deliver the news people seem is tough because we care for one another like Jesus authoritatively told us too.

Let us remind ourselves and others that Jesus heals and has authority over the unclean spirits in us because he preaches with love. Love must overcome us to defeat evil. Take everything to heart what Jesus says, his supreme authority over our hearts will allow for love to come in even when it’s not what we want to hear.

God bless you all,
Jonathan

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