Why do good people suffer?

 5 Sunday of Ordinary Time, Year B

The book of Job grapples with some of life's most difficult questions. Why do we suffer when we have done nothing wrong? Why does God feel absent at times? In the Gospel today (Mk 1:29-39) Jesus confronts these challenges. He shows us that, in the end, all suffering will be destroyed. In the meantime, Jesus is very close to those who suffer. This care is expressed in a special way in the Sacraments of healing, Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick.

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Who has authority over you?

 4 Sunday Ordinary Time, year B

In one way or another, we are under someone's authority. Human authority tends to oppress and fails to lead us to the fulness of life. In the Gospel (Mark 1:21-28) we learn that Jesus has absolute authority, yet uses this authority to serve and give new life. In his letter to the Corinthians, Paul encourages us all to put ourselves under Christ's loving lordship.

Christ Washing the Disciples' Feet, c.1305 - Giotto - WikiArt.org

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Mission gives life purpose

3 Sunday of Ordinary Time, year B

Jonah 3:1-5, 10; 1 Cor 7:29-31; Mk 1:14-20

When we lack a mission our purpose, we can lack joy and a sense of person. The readings today show us that Jesus has called each of us to be part of a community, loving God, serving our neighbour and building a more just world. We should never think we are not good enough. We all have talents God wants us to use for mission.

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