His Authority

Readings for Tuesday January 11, 2011

First Reading: Hebrews 2:5-12
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 8
Gospel: Mark 1:21-28


Jesus came to Capernaum with his followers, and on the sabbath he entered the synagogue and taught. The people were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority and not as the scribes. In their synagogue was a man with an unclean spirit; he cried out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are–the Holy One of God!” Jesus rebuked him and said, “Quiet! Come out of him!” The unclean spirit convulsed him and with a loud cry came out of him. All were amazed and asked one another, “What is this? A new teaching with authority. He commands even the unclean spirits and they obey him.” His fame spread everywhere throughout the whole region of Galilee. (Mk 1:21-28)

In Saint Paul's letter to the Hebrew's, Paul describes the authority of Jesus: "You made him for a little while lower than the angels; you crowned him with glory and honor, subjecting all things under his feet." In today's gospel reading, we are also told of how when Jesus spoke to the people, He spoke as with authority. The people of that time could tell that there was something different about Jesus, not even the scribes and priests spoke with the type of authority that He had.

It is important for us always to remember that while Jesus did humble Himself and bring Himself down to share in our existence, He still is God in the flesh. Jesus came with authority to preach, teach, and heal. He continues on in our lives with this same power and authority. We would be wise to listen to our Mother Mary when she says, "do whatever He tells you."

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed are thou among women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

Glory be to the Father, to the Son, to the Holy Spirit as it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be a world without end. Amen.