It is 12th January 2021.
The readings are from Hebrews 2:5-12; and the Gospel from Mark 1:21-28.
Are we going through some sort of suffering, either physically, mentally, financially, relationally, and spiritually? None of us has an answer that will subside our pain that we go through except the answer we get from the life of Jesus. Even though He was sinless, he underwent unspeakable pain and suffering. Sanctification comes by suffering. Jesus consecrated the entire world and humanity through His suffering. Unlike Jesus, we do not suffer for the purification of the world, we suffer to purify ourselves. If suffering cannot make us humble, pure, and humane, nothing can carve and chisel us better.
The first reading explains the mystery of suffering that paved the path of salvation for then humankind. God wanted Jesus to be one of us and allowed Him to go through humiliation, pain and suffering to redeem us. Jesus tasted death for our sake. “For this reason, Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters, saying, “I will proclaim your name to my brothers and sisters, in the midst of the congregation I will praise you.” (Heb.2:12).
The responsorial Psalm praises, “You gave your Son authority over all your creation.” (Ps.8:7).
Someone once said, “Satan does not like us praying and praising God, but when we begin praying the evil one shudders and stumbles to the ground.” The Gospel clearly explains the power of Jesus over the unclean spirit. “What is this? A new teaching, with authority. He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him.” (Mk.1:27). Whatever the suffering we are going through in our lives due to the evil ones, we need to believe in Jesus who has the power to crush them down. Know the authority and power of Jesus in your life, you will never be afraid of the deception and temptations of the evil One. May God strengthen us in Jesus to purify ourselves with the sufferings. Have a lovely day. God bless you.