Hebrews 1:1-6; Ps 97(96):1, 2b. 6, 7c. 9; Mark 1:14-20
Ordinary Time?
Yes - The liturgical season of Christmas has ended. Although you can (and should) maintain a crib in your home, to the feast of the presentation of the Lord - 2nd February. During those three weeks, contemplate how Jesus grew in the loving embrace of his family. As Fr David reminded us on Sunday this probably included the real human experience of loss - it being likely that Joseph died while Jesus was growing up. Jesus would them have become the sole support of his Mother - up until that moment shortly before his death on the cross, when he gave her to John to care for - and through John, gave His church that most precious gift of His Mother.
Today's Gospel passage continues straight after Jesus' baptism by John the Baptist (yesterday's feast being the celebration of that baptism). Chapter 1 of Mark is dynamic, exhilarating - a good chapter to read through if you can make 5 minuets free! Easy to find on the internet: