1 Samuel 8:4-7,10-22
Psalm 88(89):16-19
Mark 2:1-12
ALL POWERS AND AUTHORITY BELONGS TO GOD
Today’s readings focus on authority, which comes from God. Man was created with free will to choose good, but when we disobeyed God’s law through original sin, we damaged our relationship with Him.
The people wanted an earthly king to be like other nations, rejecting God’s authority. Jesus taught with authority and sought to heal us from sin and disease. When a paralytic was brought to him, Jesus asked if forgiving or healing was easier. He then declared, ‘The Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins,’ and told the man to get up, take his mat, and go home.
Today’s gospel shows both physical healing and forgiveness of sins—central themes in Mark’s gospel—highlighting that only God can relieve suffering, which Jesus bore, and carry sins. Following Jesus closely is the way to salvation. God is always present, and our hope depends on recognizing his presence.
Fr Joseph Osho
