Daily Gospel Reflection for January 26, 2015

Today's Gospel: Mark 3:22-30

Memorial of Saints Timothy and Titus, Bishops

In today’s gospel passage, we find the scribes, having come from Jerusalem, standing in judgment of Jesus. “He is possessed by Beelzebul,” they accuse. Surely, in their minds, only one who is himself a demon can drive out demons.

Jesus’s response is swift and stern. Speaking in parables, Jesus responds to their claims—how could one who is possessed by Satan ever have power over him? Jesus goes on to warn his followers that the sin of blaspheming against the Holy Spirit can never be forgiven.

Although I would never think of myself as one who blasphemes, all too often I profess beliefs with my words, but my actions betray the God who has given so much to me. I fall prey to that “unclean spirit” we’re warned about in Mark’s gospel. How easy it is to fall into such sin! The only remedy is found in God’s grace and the gift of God’s everlasting love.

Ponder:

How am I guilty of blaspheming against the Holy Spirit in word or deed? Am I ever guilty of making our Church into “a kingdom divided against itself”?

Pray:

Lord, help me to have the faith and strength of your servants, Saints Timothy and Titus. Embolden me to live the light of your love in word and action.

We thank our friends at The Word Among Us for providing our gospel reflection team with copies of Abide In My Word 2015: Mass Readings at Your Fingertips. To pray the daily gospels with this wonderful resource, visit The Word Among Us.

Copyright 2015 Lisa Hendey