Monday – 2nd Week in Ordinary Time C

Published on 19 January 2025 at 13:04

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, we gather in the loving presence of our Lord, whose promise is unwavering and whose resurrection is at the heart of our faith. As we reflect on the readings from the Letter to the Hebrews and the Gospel of Mark, we are invited to explore how we can discern the presence of the risen Jesus more fully in our daily lives.

From Hebrews, we learn about the role of the high priest who in the Old Covenant mediated between God and humanity. This role is beautifully fulfilled by Christ, who became our High Priest not by his own will, but through God's divine appointment. He offers not just sacrifices, but himself—complete and perfect—as a bridge to eternal salvation. Jesus, in his humanity, endured suffering so that he could elevate the dignity of our struggles and in solidarity, empathize with us. This notion of empathy is vital for us today; it reminds us that in our moments of pain, doubt, or confusion, Jesus is ever present, sitting with us in our struggles and so we ought to do likewise when we notice somebody else in a difficult situation.

The Gospel of Mark provides an essential insight into how the presence of Jesus transforms our life. Jesus utilizes the metaphor of the bridegroom. When questioned about why his disciples do not fast, Jesus responds with a profound understanding: the presence of the bridegroom—himself—demands a different response than fasting. His presence is cause for celebration, joy, and new life. This invitation to move from mourning to feasting is a call for us to recognize how the risen Jesus can transform our lives.

But what does this transformation look like for us? Jesus tells us that we cannot patch an old cloak with new fabric, nor can new wine be poured into old wineskins. What is he telling us about understanding His presence? He invites us to be open and receptive to the newness that comes with his presence in our lives. The source of our freedom will be a ransom from sin, rather than a dependance on money, for example. The risen Christ encourages us to seek renewal—embracing a fresh, vibrant faith that dances with life and joy.

In our daily routines, let us be intentional about looking for Jesus in our actions, in our community, and within ourselves. Are we taking time for prayer, reflecting on Scripture, and participating in the sacraments? These are crucial opportunities where we can encounter our risen Lord, and often times, they are overlooked by those searching for something greater in life. We experience Jesus in the simple and ordinary moments—through acts of kindness, moments of gratitude, and the shared joys and sorrows of friends and family.

Moreover, let us consider how we can create space for “new wineskins” in our lives. This may mean altering our routines or clearing away distractions that take us away from experiencing Jesus’ presence. As we approach each day, could we begin with a prayer asking for guidance to see him in unexpected places? Even if we have grown accustomed to holy routines, let us take a step back to better appreciate the graces and blessings that come to us through them.

We continue to be mindful of the greatest grace of all—that Jesus is with us. He is the High Priest whose love is eternal, and he invites us to live in the fullness of that relationship. In a spirit of joy and openness, we allow ourselves to be guided by his presence. The freshness his presence brings to our worldview will continue to change our lives forever. Praised be our Lord Jesus Christ, now and always.

Amen.


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