Daily Gospel Reflection for February 9, 2016

Today's Gospel: Mark 7, 1-13

Things were really different in the time of Jesus, because there were people who went "by the book" in how they followed the laws and traditions. And there were those who chose to do things differently.

I think the message in the Gospel passage is that we, as people in today’s generation, need to not conform to the world and do things that contradict what we we’ve learned in the Bible, in church, and from the example of Jesus. In today’s world, there are people who are afraid to live out what they believe, and so conform to what the world teaches.

Jesus wants us to know that we can’t be afraid anymore. We must live out our faith and be witnesses of the Gospel, even if the world does not think it’s "cool."

I like how Jesus reflects on the words of Moses, "Honor your father and your mother." These words are so true but are not always remembered. It is our parents who have taught us and instilled lessons of faith. They are examples of how we should live our faith. I know that not everyone has a mother and/or father. I grew up without a father. My mom raised my siblings and me with the help of my grandparents. My mom passed away in 2012 at the age of 50 from a heart attack. I remember how she worked hard to help my siblings and me on our faith journey.

Ponder:

How do you live out the faith you've learned and be a loving son or daughter in today's society?

Pray:

Dear Jesus, help me to remember teaching and traditions of my faith as I live my life in the world. I pray that I will continue to love and honor my parents.

Copyright 2016 Joe Sales

Joe Sales is a blogger and speaker who lives in London, Ontario, Canada. He is a very devout Catholic who is traditional in his faith. He also has a strong devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Joe blogs at Joe Sales Official Blog.