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Our Healing Mission

Mark describes the reaction of Jesus’ return to his hometown of Nazareth in the Gospel Reading for the 10th Sunday in Ordinary Time (3:20-35). Once known as simply the young carpenter, son of Mary and Joseph, Jesus had become a leader who attracted crowds and welcomed sinners. The response from those who once knew him best was skepticism and disbelief. His teaching style attracted the attention of the religious establishment who scrutinized his teachings. “He is out of his mind” they said. His acts of compassion lead some to question his sanity and others to accuse him of being possessed by evil forces. The religious leaders claimed, “He is possessed by Beelzebul.” Despite the misunderstanding, the criticism and opposition, Jesus continued his healing mission.

Lesson for us Today

We too are often misunderstood, confronted with criticism and faced with opposition. Whether it is within our family or relationships, at the work place or in society, conflicts and disagreements are a part of our lives. They threaten our inner harmony, our spiritual health and can lead us to doubt. Jesus, however, offers us a path forward, one of love, compassion and forgiveness. He invites us to look beyond our differences and embrace the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit invites us to listen with open hearts and minds and to recognize the presence of God in the midst of our everyday lives even in the face of conflict.

Living the Gospel

As we journey through the season of Ordinary Time with the Gospel of Mark, let us pray that we can find the extra ordinary moments of life and use them as a time of reconciliation and peace in a world in need of healing. Let us make it our healing mission