Deut 18: 15-20; Psalm 94(95): 1-2.6-9; 1 Cor 7: 32-35; Mark 1: 21-28
The fifth and final book of Pentateuch, Deuteronomy brings up to date the earlier Law books, and seeks to persuade Israel that their only salvation is to obey God’s Law. Today’s reading, promising that the Lord will raise up a Prophet like Moses, was seen by Jesus and his followers as pointing to Jesus.
The Psalm invites us to worship God, who is our king and our shepherd, warning us to be more faithful than the Israelites in the desert.
In last week’s reading Paul emphasised to the Corinthians that the world is passing away and they should stop arguing among themselves. They should consider carefully before giving themselves extra worries by more responsibilities. Hence the advice this week for unmarried people to remain in their present state so they can give all their time to the Lord’s affairs. But Paul goes on make it clear he is not against marriage.
After the calling of the first disciples, Mark’s Gospel continues with Jesus teaching in the synagogue. His teaching and healing authority is immediately recognised. But spirits recognise Jesus so he tells them to be quiet. Their words can have no meaning to human beings during his lifetime. Mark insists that we can only know Jesus through the Cross.
Psalm Response: O that today you would listen to his voice! “Harden not your hearts”.
(Deut 18: 15-20; Psalm 94(95): 1-2.6-9; 1 Cor 7: 32-35; Mark 1: 21-28)