Daily Readings - Wed Jan 11 2023
Hebrews
14Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death--that is, the devil--15and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death.16For surely it is not angels he helps, but Abraham's descendants.17For this reason he had to be made like his brothers in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people.18Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.
Mark
29As soon as they left the synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew.30Simon's mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they told Jesus about her.31So he went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she began to wait on them.32That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed.33The whole town gathered at the door,34and Jesus healed many who had various diseases. He also drove out many demons, but he would not let the demons speak because they knew who he was.35Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.36Simon and his companions went to look for him,37and when they found him, they exclaimed: "Everyone is looking for you!"38Jesus replied, "Let us go somewhere else--to the nearby villages--so I can preach there also. That is why I have come."39So he traveled throughout Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter profound truths about Jesus' mission and ministry. The first reading from Hebrews reveals Jesus' solidarity with humanity, sharing our flesh and blood to liberate us from the fear of death and the devil's grip. This text emphasizes Jesus' role as a merciful High Priest, who, through his suffering and temptation, can compassionately assist us in our struggles. The Gospel from Mark illustrates this theology through action, depicting Jesus healing the sick, casting out demons, and preaching throughout Galilee. These acts demonstrate Jesus' divine authority and his mission to bring God's kingdom to all.
The connection between these readings lies in their portrayal of Jesus' dual role as both the suffering servant and the powerful healer. Hebrews provides the theological underpinning, explaining why Jesus had to become human—to destroy death's power and offer forgiveness. Mark then shows this theology in action, with Jesus' miracles and preaching manifesting his divine mission. Together, they reveal a Savior who is both fully human and fully divine, deeply compassionate and supremely powerful.
In our daily lives, these readings invite us to trust in Jesus' plan and to serve others with compassion. Just as Jesus healed and preached, we are called to be instruments of God's grace, bringing hope and light to those around us. Let us reflect on how we can embody this mission, trusting in God's providence and serving with love, just as Jesus did. Through faith and compassion, we can overcome fear and bring God's healing presence to a world in need.