It is 20th January 2021.
The readings are from Hebrews 7:1-3, 15-17; and the Gospel from Mark 3:1-6.
To find a solution for an issue, we do not need to fight.
Jesus is our High Priest who never stops doing good to us even when we have decided to forget Him.
The first reading emphasis the power of Jesus over death and suffering of all sorts as the High Priest, the second Melchizedek of old, who symbolizes peace and righteousness. There is so much similarity between them priest for ever. It cements with the quote from Psalm 110: “You are a priest forever, according to the order of Melchizedek.” Jesus remains a different from all priest by His One Sacrifice.
The responsorial Psalm praises, “You are a priest for ever, in the line of Melchizedek.” (109:4).
Confrontation always emerges when we want to do good. No one criticises or praises when we do not do. Critics are always there to notice what could have been don or what is missing in our doing. That must not pull our enthusiasm down in standing for the poor and needy around us. No holiday or excuse for doing good to ourselves, and humanity. A certain amount criticism is good for our self-evaluation.
Healing of withered hand is being criticised by the Pharisees. Jesus ignores all criticism and go out to heal our withered areas of life. whatever the Law against the restoration of humanity, Jesus will trample them down to uphold the dignity of every one of us. Every law is there to enhance the life of people not to imprison and humiliate them. Love takes precedence over any law. Our love for the sick, the suffering, and those in pain need be a priority over any laws and customs we have formulated. Even it is day of the Lord, we are not exempted to do good. In fact, we have more time, energy, and freedom to do good as it is being a day of rest and relaxation. There is energy and inner stamina we obtain when go out to help and heal the world. May the Lord help us to be sensible towards those in need of curing and healing integrally. Have a good day. God bless you.