MONDAY, THIRD WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
Heb 9: 15, 24-28 Ps 98: 1-6 Mk 3: 22-30
JESUS, THE MEDIATOR OF THE NEW COVENANT
The early Christian community, led by figures like Timothy and Titus, experienced a radical transformation through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. They revelled in the joy of discipleship, a far cry from the rigid legalism of the Jewish Rabbis and Scribes. These religious leaders were preoccupied with meticulous adherence to laws and rituals, often seeking absolution through costly sacrifices. In contrast, Jesus offered a revolutionary path, a way of authentic worship rooted in personal morality: “If you… remember that your brother has something against you,… First go and be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift” (Mt 5:23-24).
In today’s gospel, Jesus presents a demanding yet liberating vision of discipleship. He calls us to a life of radical honesty and moral purity, a life that is wholly surrendered to God. This radical lifestyle is not merely a pious aspiration but a practical reality that requires tangible actions and sacrifices. Jesus underscores the importance of personal righteousness as a prerequisite for authentic worship. This involves a relentless battle against our own desires and passions, a battle that can only be won with God’s help. To follow Jesus, we must embrace the cost of discipleship. It is not enough to merely attend church services or recite prayers; we must actively seek to live out the teachings of Christ in our daily lives. This requires a deep and abiding faith, sincere repentance, and a willingness to let go of our old ways of thinking and behaving. We must never forget that our salvation is not earned through our own efforts but is a gift of God’s grace. It is through faith in Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit that we can overcome sin and live a life that is pleasing to God. Let us, therefore, embrace the challenge of discipleship with courage and hope, knowing that with God’s help, we can achieve the impossible.
Response: O Sing a new song to the Lord, for he has worked wonders.
Copyright ©2025 ©Springs of Living Water http://springs.carmelmedia.in