In Mark's gospel today, we see Jesus bringing wholeness and healing. First, we see Jesus visiting the home of Simon Peter—as a side you can see the extent of his sacrifice in following Jesus. Peter, along with his colleagues, is prepared to give up the close ties of family relationships. It is interesting to note, in the light of current debates on priestly celibacy, that the very first Pope was married, living in a home with an extended family. Peter's wife is sick, and he turns to his friend to bring her back to the fullness of life. Her reaction to this healing is to serve the community. How many of us can remember, with gratitude a visit to nana where we enjoyed the delights of her home cooking. Peter's mother-in-law is no different: she wants to make sure that her family and friends are cared for in the best possible way.

As so often happens, once the locals discover Jesus is offering the gift of wholeness, they come to him. The sick and possessed are brought to him. It is interesting that they come to see Jesus under the cover of darkness. Also, it is the forces of evil that actually understand the power and strength of Jesus's light. His intent was to heal people both in body and soul. Most scripture scholars now agree that miracles were an important part of Our Lord's ministry and of the memory of that ministry in the early church. We simply cannot abandon them to please those who say miracles are impossible. The precise explanation of how these healings were accomplished is another matter and perhaps one that is also beside the point. Jesus did not work miracles to prove anything. Rather they were signs that God's healing love is at work in the world.

From the beginning of his ministry, we see the importance of prayer and reflection in the life of Jesus—even it means getting up at the crack of dawn. Today we are busy with so much going on, yet we are still invited to make time for God in our lives. We need that support; we need that relationship; we need that ability to share our lives fully in whatever vocation we are called to share. Jesus helps the people of Simon Peter's town to appreciate that sin and wickedness need not define us. We are called to share the light that true healing brings.

There is a realisation at the end of this morning prayer that Jesus must begin his wandering ministry. Jesus and the apostles cannot stay in one place—such is the urgency and needing to preach the gospel. This week will see us in many different places and contexts: at the local Asda, or in the pub; at work, school or at home, the call is—live the gospel. Each of us can bring the wholeness, strength, and light of God to those we meet. We can be the agents of healing by our very presence. You will make such a difference this week—if you really want to try. As Pope Francis reminds us:

The Son of God highlights God's gift of His only Son for the salvation of humanity. God desires our eternal salvation, and Jesus' mission is one of salvation for all. The coming of Jesus into the world leads to a choice…Whoever chooses darkness will face a judgment of condemnation, whoever chooses light will have a judgment of salvation. (14/03/2021)

Author: Fr Gerry O'Shaughnessy SDB

Photo by William Farlow on Unsplash