FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME. Theme: DISTINGUISHING ONESELF

READINGS AT MASS

Deut. 18:15-20

Psalm 95

1 Cor 7:32-35

Mk 1:21-28

Theme: DISTINGUISHING ONESELF

Dear friends in Christ, N'wokafu YESU KRISTO...

Jesus distinguished Himself today at a gathering in Capernaum. It was just a few weeks into His ministry and the difference was already clear. He began to distinguish Himself from among others of His kind.

In our Gospel reading this morning, we were told that Jesus came to Capernaum and taught in the synagogue on the Sabbath. His teaching made a great impression on the people. Unlike the Scribes, He taught with authority and had command over unclean spirits. The people immediately saw the deep contrast.

Our First Reading for this morning is part of Moses' farewell speech. The literary setting of the whole text is at the end of the Leader's (Moses') life. As the wandering kingdom (Israelites) prepare to enter the Promised Land, they are faced with one obvious question. Who will lead us like him? The problem was not finding a prophet but finding one that will distinguish himself like Moses and truly speak the mind of God.

Beloved, the world is hungry for people (Christians and leaders) who will distinguish themselves positively. Embedded in our Christian calling is a call to stand out and live unlike others. You are your own brand and as such must distinguish yourself in which ever area you find yourself. You must distinguish yourself in your career, education, marriage and in the practice of your Faith. Many are just being Christians. Do not just be a Christian; be a Christian with a difference. Everyone is just being a nurse or a teacher. Be a teacher or a nurse with a difference. Embrace that which makes you different. You are unique and buried within your uniqueness is your greatness.

The world does not need a bunch of people that are the same. There is no astonishment in being the same and doing it the same way. Do not let the world make you feel bad for not following the status quo. Just be yourself and do it like Jesus.

PRAYER

Almighty, ever-living God, direct my attention towards your Son Jesus Christ so that I might have the strength to distinguish myself like Him in all I do. Amen.

May God bless you.

-Rev. Fr. Kenneth Debre

Sunday, January 31, 2021.

Holy Rosary Parish, Hohoe.