Reading 1: Job 7:1-4, 6-7
Reading 2: 1 Cor 9:16-19, 22-23
Gospel: Mk 1:29-39
Do the headlines and news reports leave you with a feeling of hopelessness? Are you left with a sense that nothing is going to change and matters will only get worse? That’s a Job attitude. Woe is me. The first reading today describes Job’s despondency over his situation. However, Jesus points us to an alternative. His message is hope. Those suffering from difficult situations, physical and psychological illness, or even demonic possession, received hope and healing. No matter how bleak the situation may seem, Jesus is the Light shining through darkness. That is the ongoing message in the Gospel readings of these first few weeks in ordinary time which are replete with numerous accounts of healings and lives changed.
In this Sunday’s Gospel account, Jesus models for us the importance and necessity of prayer. The inner strength needed to face the most challenging situations, or simply the typical ups and downs of daily life, comes from developing a relationship with Our Heavenly Father who calls each of us beloved sons and daughters. In this relationship with the Father Jesus found His strength.
So, do you want to have a Job attitude or a Jesus attitude? The choice is yours.
Sister Marcella Louise Wallowicz, CSFN
