Mass readings: usccb.org/bible/readings/012619.cfm

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark 3:20-21

Jesus came with his disciples into the house. Again the crowd gathered, making it impossible for them even to eat. When his relatives heard of this they set out to seize him, for they said, "He is out of his mind." The Gospel of the Lord.

REFLECTION:

Jesus’ relatives thought he was crazy. The people who knew Jesus all his life didn’t believe in him and his mission on earth. All they could see was Jesus disregarding daily life and creating a disturbance. Their familiarity with Jesus overruled any revelation of God and this unbelief held them back from understanding the work of God.

Does this sound familiar? There are many Christians that have faced the same predicament in following Christ. Their families don’t understand the changes God makes in their hearts. They can take solace in the fact that Jesus came before them and experienced the pain of being misunderstood. Jesus didn’t change his mind about his mission, but stayed the course in his love for us.

Jesus was “out of his mind” because he was focused on his passionate love for the salvation of mankind. This love took precedence over food and other comforts. We can dwell in the heart of Jesus to withstand our disappointments and heartaches for those who do not understand the love of Christ.

When we are faced with the challenges of unbelievers and those who ridicule the Catholic faith, may God give us the grace to remain faithful. May our prayers intensify for our loved ones to see the truth. Are we willing to obey and follow Jesus when opposed by others?