HE TEACHES WITH AUTHORITY

1^st READING - 1 Samuel 1:9-20

P S A L M  - 1 Samuel 2:1, 4-5, 6-7, 8

GOSPEL - Mark 1:21-28

SABBATH

As Jesus begins His public ministry, the people are impressed with His teaching. He teaches with authority. This can be difficult for some to digest as they realize He is just a son of the carpenter. Where could He have acquired His intellect and wisdom? The scholars of the day, the rabbis, were the great intellects. They would quote from one source or another and their disciples would marvel at their wisdom. However, Jesus teaches with authority, not quoting from any source, except by the Spirit of God. The Father had given Him words of wisdom, from whom comes His authority. Jesus is the Holy One of God and so He teaches with the power of the Spirit. The teaching that Jesus conveys is freedom from evil and sin. It makes an impact upon His listeners and people marvel at His words. Jesus’ reputation spreads. We, too, have been given authority. By virtue of our baptism, we are Christians empowered with the Spirit, cleansed in the Blood of Jesus, and strengthened in His grace. We can call upon the authority of the Lord to free us from sin, to help us witness to the truth, and serve each other. In being saved from sin, we are to move and act under the authority of His name. Let us call on the promise of the Spirit who enlightens us and empowers us. We need not fear as God is on our side. And His authority is an act of love, not domination, selfishness or greed. We need to consider how we exercise our authority. Do we do it with love or do we dominate? Oftentimes, authority is abused. Authority figures may have wounded us and stopped us from growing in the Lord. Let us bring these hurts to the Lord for healing and forgiveness. If we serve one another in love, walking under the mighty hand of God, we will see the authority and power of Jesus in our lives. Jesus teaches with authority and He desires us to also act in the authority given us — out of love, not domination. Fr. Brian Steele, MGL   REFLECTION QUESTIONS: How can you put the authority of Jesus in your life? Where can you use His authority to overcome sin, to help a friend in need, and witness to faith and conviction?   Lord, I rejoice in Your saving help. I claim Your authority over my life. Govern me and empower me with the grace of Your Holy Spirit. I believe that You are the Holy One of God. Amen.