21 January, 2024 | Third Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reading 1 : Jon 3:1-5, 10 | Reading 2 : 1 Cor 7:29-31

Gospel Mk 1:14-20

After John had been arrested,

Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the gospel of God:

"This is the time of fulfillment.

The kingdom of God is at hand.

Repent, and believe in the gospel."

As he passed by the Sea of Galilee,

he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting their nets into the sea;

they were fishermen.

Jesus said to them,

"Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men."

Then they abandoned their nets and followed him.

He walked along a little farther

and saw James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John.

They too were in a boat mending their nets.

Then he called them.

So they left their father Zebedee in the boat

along with the hired men and followed him.

Reflections:

 Jesus begins His ministry by proclaiming the good news of God, announcing the arrival of the kingdom of God and inviting to repent and conversion of one’s heart. We are called to continue this proclamation, sharing the good news of salvation history and the nearness of God's kingdom to those around us. Jesus calls people to repent and believe in the good news which means our need for forgiveness, turning away from our sinful ways etc. It is a call for continuous conversion of one’s heart and deepens our relationship with God. It is an earnest call to leave our comfort zones, to build supportive communities, and to recognize leadership potential in unexpected places. Jesus saw leadership potential in ordinary fishermen. We should remember that leadership and influence can emerge from unexpected places in person’s lives. 

Activity: 

Reflect on your personal response to Jesus' call, respect your co-workers.

Theme for Day 4 of Christian Unity Week: Day 4 - 

When he saw him, he passed by on the other side (Lk 10:31)