The description of Jesus’ time in the desert has a particular resonance as we begin the season of Lent, a time of self-examination and self-denial. His temptation shows his humanity but, ‘like us in all but sin’, he did not succumb. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
Gospel Reflections
‘Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him’
In his reaction to the leper Jesus mirrors the compassion of God – he is not afraid to challenge the rules about what is ‘clean’, and what is ‘unclean’. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘He cured many who were suffering from diseases’
In this week’s reading, Mark sets before us a typical day’s ministry of Jesus in Capernaum. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘He gives orders even to unclean spirits and they obey him’
In this reading, Jesus’ actions in healing the sick man show the power of God, while his teaching proclaims the coming of the kingdom. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘Repent and believe the Good News’
In this reading, the first disciples abandon both their daily work and their family ties to respond immediately to Jesus’ summons. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘We have found the Messiah’
This week’s verses reflect the enthusiastic response of the first disciples to Jesus and their eagerness to spread the news about him. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘You are my Son, the Beloved’
The baptism of Jesus is a clear demonstration of his solidarity with all those who need healing and forgiveness. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘The sight of the star filled them with delight’
In the story of the magi, Jesus is ‘made manifest’ as Messiah not only for his own people, but for all the peoples of the earth. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘A light to enlighten the pagans’
The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple has a profound significance. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘I am the handmaid of the Lord’
At the very heart of this week’s gospel is the request of God to Mary and her generous response. Her willingness to do God’s will makes her the first of Jesus’ disciples, and the Mother of the Church. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.