Gospel
Mark 1:29-39
He cast out devils and cured many who were suffering from disease
On leaving the synagogue, Jesus went with James and John straight to the house of Simon and Andrew. Now Simon’s mother-in-law had gone to bed with fever, and they told him about her straightaway. He went to her, took her by the hand and helped her up. And the fever left her and she began to wait on them.
That evening, after sunset, they brought to him all who were sick and those who were possessed by devils. The whole town came crowding round the door, and he cured many who were suffering from diseases of one kind or another; he also cast out many devils, but he would not allow them to speak, because they knew who he was.
In the morning, long before dawn, he got up and left the house, and went off to a lonely place and prayed there. Simon and his companions set out in search of him, and when they found him they said, ‘Everybody is looking for you.’ He answered, ‘Let us go elsewhere, to the neighbouring country towns, so that I can preach there too, because that is why I came.’ And he went all through Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and casting out devils.
Short Reflection
In this passage from Mark's Gospel, we see Jesus' ministry in action: healing Simon's mother-in-law with a simple touch, curing many sick and casting out demons as crowds gather, yet silencing the demons because they knew His identity. Strikingly, after a busy day of ministry, Jesus rises early to pray in solitude, replenishing His spirit before continuing His mission to preach elsewhere. This reveals Jesus as both compassionate healer and devoted Son, prioritizing prayer and the proclamation of the Kingdom over staying in one place of popularity.
Question for Reflection
Where in your busy life do you carve out solitary time to pray and seek God's presence, as Jesus did, even when others are demanding your attention?
Short Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your healing touch and authority over sickness and evil. Help me to follow Your example: serving others with compassion, yet always returning to prayer for strength and guidance. Draw me closer to You in quiet moments, that I may share Your Good News wherever I go. Amen.
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