In a sense, today’s gospel reading gives us a microcosm of all the stories about Jesus’ public ministry in the gospels. Mark tells us that just before this demoniac entered the synagogue, the Jews were astounded by Jesus’ preaching. They could sense that Jesus spoke with the authority of God, while the scribes relied on the authority of education and tradition.

Obviously, Jesus wants us to be educated. And of course he places a great value upon our traditions. But at the same time, when God’s power and his authority are present, we can tell the difference. We feel the peace, the hope, and the love. When the Holy Spirit is at work, our faith increases, and we respond to it.

The Jews were not the only ones who saw a difference in Jesus. And the demon saw it as well. He was so upset by Jesus’ presence, in fact, that he blurted out: “I know who you are, the Holy One of God” (Mark 1:24). The difference between the people’s response and the demon’s response, however, is significant. Being astounded by Jesus is not necessarily the same as knowing that he is the Holy One of God. It’s even possible that some of those who were amazed by Jesus were the same people who eventually turned against him.

So ask yourself today: “Am I relying only on the good authority that is embodied in education, good reason, and longstanding traditions? Or am I allowing myself to be taught by the Holy Spirit as well—by the One who brings the authority of God to life in my heart and mind?” The people in Jesus’ time knew the difference, and so can we.

If you want to know that difference, turn to the Lord today at Mass and ask him for more of his Spirit. Every morning when you wake up, tell the Lord: “You are the Holy One of God. What do you want to do in my life today?” Then watch what happens.

“Lord, you constantly protect your church from the hand of evil. Teach us with your authority. Work in our lives and enliven us with your heavenly grace.”

Questions for Reflection/Discussion by Catholic Men

1.    In the reading from Deuteronomy, God tells the people of Israel that he will raise up a prophet from among them. He goes on to warn them with these words, “Whoever will not listen to my words which he speaks in my name, I myself will make him answer for it.” We know that this passage was ultimately fulfilled in the coming of Jesus. How seriously do you take the words of Jesus when they require you to do something, or give up something, you don’t want to. What are some of the excuses you make for not doing what you know the Lord is asking of you.

2.    The responsorial psalm continues that theme by warning us not to harden our hearts. What are the things that can harden your heart from following the Lord?

3.    Although St. Paul tells us in the second reading to be “free of anxieties,” he also tells us to be “anxious for the things of the Lord.” What are the "things of the Lord" that should make us “anxious” to please him?

4.    In the Gospel, Jesus not only taught with authority, but he also healed and delivered the man with an unclean spirit with that same authority. The reaction to Jesus was that the people were "amazed". Share a time when you were “amazed” by Jesus’ healing touch on your life or others.

5.    What are some obstacles that keep you from being amazed by Jesus? What can you do this week to open yourelf during prayer and allow Jesus to teach you and amaze you? Are you willing to have the heart of a student learning at the feet of the divine teacher?

6.    The meditation asks us to allow the Holy Spirit to teach us, both in our hearts and in our minds. Why is just head knowledge of Jesus insufficient? Why is it important to know in your heart that Jesus is your Lord and Savior?

7.    How would you characterize your relationship with Jesus? Is it more a head knowledge rather than a heart set on him? Why not end your meeting by praying that each of you would have a deeper experience of Jesus’ love and a greater surrendering of your heart to him.

Come Holy Spirit!  ~  Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful, and en kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your spirit and they are created, and you renew the face of the earth. Let us pray: O God, you taught the hearts of your faithful by sending them the light of your Holy Spirit. In that same spirit give us your right judgment and the joy of your consolation. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen

Prayer to St. Joseph  ~  Glorious St. Joseph, guide and protector of the Holy Family, we ask that you obtain for us from your son, Jesus, the strength and wisdom to lead our families to their Father in heaven. Most Chaste spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary, may we imitate your obedience to the will of God and be ever mindful of the vocation to which we have been called. Amen