16th, January Saturday
I. Heb 4: 12-16
II. Mk 2:13-17
Theme: Discernment and honesty in the presence of God
In the Gospel we are reminded that Jesus’ ministry attracts a lot of attention. All sorts of people flock to hear and see Jesus. Those who seem most interested in Jesus’ words are those who seek healing, wholeness and salvation. Jesus reaches out to those who need Him the most sinners, the sick, and outcasts. Levi, the tax collector, is one who hears Jesus’ invitation and responds. The religious leaders are shocked at Jesus’ eating with tax collectors Jesus reminds them that it is the sick who seek out the help of a doctor. Healthy people do not turn to the One Who can heal because they don’t realize how sick they are. Discernment and honesty in the presence of God are key points in the readings today. Discernment is a gift from God to be able to differentiate the Good from the bad. People can deceive others. They may even deceive themselves, but they can never deceive God. It is only when we are humble and honest with ourselves that we realize how sinful we are. It is then that God can bring us forgiveness, healing, wholeness and salvation. God want us to have salvation but God will not force it upon us. Jesus will heal us when we admit our need to be healed. Today we are asked to reflect on our need of healing physical, emotional, and especially spiritual and to turn to the Divine Physician Who is willing to bring us salvation.
Bro. Martin SMM
II BTH