4 February 2024 | Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

 Reading 1:  Jb 7:1-4, 6-7 | Reading 2 :1 Cor 9:16-19, 22-23

Gospel Mk 1:29-39

On leaving the synagogue

Jesus entered the house of Simon and Andrew with James and John.

Simon's mother-in-law lay sick with a fever.

They immediately told him about her.

He approached, grasped her hand, and helped her up.

Then the fever left her and she waited on them.

When it was evening, after sunset,

they brought to him all who were ill or possessed by demons.

The whole town was gathered at the door.

He cured many who were sick with various diseases,

and he drove out many demons,

not permitting them to speak because they knew him.

Rising very early before dawn, he left

and went off to a deserted place, where he prayed.

Simon and those who were with him pursued him

and on finding him said, "Everyone is looking for you."

He told them, "Let us go on to the nearby villages

that I may preach there also.

For this purpose have I come."

So he went into their synagogues,

preaching and driving out demons throughout the whole of Galilee.

Reflections:

The Gospel opens with Jesus leaving the synagogue and going to Simon’s home accompanied by some of His disciples. When Jesus arrives at Simon’s house, He was approached and told that Simon’s mother-in-law was ill with a fever. Jesus went to her, took her hand and helped her up. Immediately the fever left her.

When Simon’s mother-in-law is cured, she does what Jesus himself does. She serves those in need. She becomes a disciple. Wellbeing of spirit involves a willingness to serve, and this spiritual wellbeing is what Jesus wants us to be. The gospel teaches us that Jesus can heal those who trust and believe in Him. Let us look for Jesus and allow him to heal us because we need him every day of our lives. Does Jesus have a place in my life? 

Activity: 

Reflect on the healing that you desire for yourself.