February 7-8, 2009
Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Job 7:1-7 First Corinthians 9:16-23 Mark 1:29-39
This week presents an interesting and diverse selection of readings. In the Book of Job, we hear within the STORY (remember, this is not a historically real episode) of Job’s lament at the things that have befallen him….of course we do not hear God’s supposed response to Job, which is basically, ‘get over it and get on with your life!’ In Paul’s continuing first letter to the people of Corinth he speaks of ‘doing whatever he has to do’ in order for people to experience the Gospel he received from Jesus. The Gospel of Mark has a tantalizing reminder that Peter (as in St. Peter) was married…sort of makes us wonder why we never heard anything about Mrs. Simon Peter…or what happened to her when Peter was later crucified in Rome? The line that jumps out however is when the apostles say to Jesus, somewhat in frustration….‘Everyone is looking for you.’ Which raises the question of ‘why were the crowds looking for Jesus?’ Were they looking for a quick cure from a disease? Did they want to bask in his presence and collect the equivalent of his autograph? Did they want something from him? Was there anyone who simply wanted to soak up what Jesus was saying and get to know him better? Which leads us to the next obvious question…why are WE here today? In coming to Mass, why are we here? Do we want something from Jesus? If so…what are we perhaps willing to give Jesus in exchange? Are we only interested in what Jesus can do for us…or are we interested in getting to know him on a personal level, to enter into the unfathomable mystery of a ‘conversation’ with God?
Thank you for joining with our Corpus Christi Community this weekend as we move into the ‘shortest month’ of the year. While our BIG PSA pitch was a couple of weeks ago, we are still accepting/collecting pledges from those who either needed more time to consider an appropriate pledge amount or who simply misplaced their envelope. In mid month we will start to send out our ‘Hello…where are you?’ letters to those from whom we have not heard. So…please, if you have yet to pledge…please do so promptly! The Bulletin has information worthy of your attention, especially with the approach of Lent…preceded by our Mardi Gras Food Fair…please take a Bulletin home with you. As we enter this last FULL month of winter, remember, you are loved. FKB
