POWER AND AUTHORITY
ARE WED TO LOVE AND HUMILITY
ARE WED TO LOVE AND HUMILITY
Jesus does something unheard of when He speaks about power and authority. He weds them to love and humility.
Yesterday, we read from Mark's Gospel that Jesus cures "a few sick people by laying His hands on them" (Mk 6:6). Laying hands and blessing is very important in helping people who are in need of healing, whether physically or spiritually. Mark's Gospel continues to tell us today that Jesus gives His Apostles authority over unclean spirits; to go out and do the good works which will heal. They begin to cast out evil spirits and to speak the Word of God - proclaiming the Good News. Jesus does something unheard of when He speaks about power and authority. He weds them to love and humility. The "world" and the "flesh" seek power for selfish gain. Jesus, our Lord, teaches us to use them every day for the good of those around us.
Jesus tells the Apostles to "travel light." "Poverty of Spirit" frees us from greed and preoccupation with possessions and makes ample room for God's provisions. So what is the message for us today? We, as disciples, need to be dependent on Him and not on ourselves, in imitation of His first disciples! God entrusts us with His gifts and talents, then with the grace we receive, we are invited to share them with others.
The challenge for us is to ponder over God's bounty so much so that we will want to join in praising the lavish Giver, Who gives all the gifts of life! We hear the Psalmist proclaim, "In Your hand are power and might; it is Yours to give grandeur and strength to all" (Psalm Prayer). Riches and honor come from God. With our hearts so moved, we will then join the Apostles who are sent out by Jesus to preach, teach and spread the message of repentance, to cure the sick and reach out to those most in need.
To serve as Jesus did, takes love and humility!