Jesus answered, “We must go on to the other villages round here. I have to preach in them also, because that is why I came.” (Mk 1:38)

Jesus answered, “We must go on to the other villages round here. I have to preach in them also, because that is why I came.” (Mk 1:38)

Today’s Passages: Mk 1:29-39; Heb 2:14-18

Meditation: Though today’s meditation passage renders a very good beginning, the verse we are going to focus on, i.e., the last but one verse, seems to give us a little strange ending. Nevertheless, Jesus has something to tell you and me in a special way right now through this verse. A normal day of Jesus began with going to the synagogue and then, made some healing ministry and driving out demons together with preaching, and fulfilling the duties he went to sleep. The next day, early in the morning he went to lonely place to pray to his father. How beautiful and fruitful Jesus’ life is!

However, the second part gives us another account as to disciples’ search for Jesus and their plea before Jesus, “Everyone is looking for you.” (Mk 1:37) Of course, we find some excitement from the part of disciples. It is not so long that they began their life with Jesus and in such a short time they came to know that their master has become celebrated; ‘come master many are waiting for you.’ In the present time, when everyone expects such message, this excitement may not be something worth mentioning.

But let us see how Jesus reacted to it and his reaction to disciples’ request is today’s focus of attention in our meditation. Jesus answered, “We must go on to the other villages round here. I have to preach in them also, because that is why I came.” (Mk 1:38) As in the case of John the Baptist, Jesus is fully aware of his mission. Therefore, there is no stop for human glorification in his journey of doing the will of the father. Tests and trials in our life are only to make aware of our mission and therefore, “Let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from beginning to the end.” (Heb 12:2)

Our Lord and Savior, Jesus has already overcome the world and its temptations. And now he warns and encourages you and me saying, “The world will make you suffer. But be brave! I have defeated the world!” (Jn 16:33) This may not always be physical suffering; sometimes this may be some tests or trials as to make your way to God get blocked. Therefore, always keep alert and remember Jesus; “he can help those who are tempted and suffered.” (Heb 2:18) 

          

Prayer: Lord God, we thank you and praise you for your daily eternal bread. Lord, help us to be reminded of our mission in this world as a child of God at each moment of lives. Let us learn that we are not after human approval or glory but after accomplishing our duties entrusted by God. Today in a special way we remember all those who work for the spread of the kingdom of God unselfishly. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen! 

Greetings: God is with you! Have a blissful Wednesday!