This Sunday we again hear from the Gospel of Mark (1:21-28)—and we will listen to Mark a great deal this liturgical year. Today Mark tells us of the positive reception which Jesus received from the people who heard His teachings in the synagogues: “the people were astonished by His teaching.” Why were they astonished? Did they know Him by reputation; did they believe that He was the Son of God? The people said, so the gospel tells us, that “he taught them as one having authority and not as the scribes.” What kind of authority?

We hear all kinds of people speak: from politicians to TV personalities to religious leaders and movie stars or musicians—some are mesmerizing others hold our attention for days and weeks; some seem to talk directly to the people, pulling at a heart string that enlists our support and commitment to a cause. Yet, often times—whatever their “call to arms” might be—usually the
electricity fades and somehow we all return to everyday life.

What was different about Jesus? What did He say, how did He present Himself—and how did He enlist billions of people all over the globe to follow Him—over millennia? What was (is) His staying power?

In a nutshell: Truth, authenticity. Jesus speaks to the human heart. He directs His preaching to real human conditions, real needs and then He addresses them. He speaks to us about care and compassion, about truth and love, about human dignity, about hope and life. The common denominator in all of these teachings of Jesus is that no matter who you are or what faith you follow or where you live or the station of your life, or your race or gender—we are all in need of hope, love, truth and compassion. We are human. His authentic teachings and His Truth resonate with each of us.

Last weekend we had Sister Frances and Sisters Fatima, Michael and Mary Alexandra from the Little Sisters of the Poor in Enfield visit our parish and speak to us about their ministry of caring for the vulnerable and poor elderly. They spoke about handing over their lives to live as Christ and care for the poor. And people listened to them—and responded. Without an organized second collection and with no notice of them coming to us, people reached into the pockets and pocketbooks and donated nearly $5000. Why? Because they too spoke of authenticity and truth. Unlike the Scribes—but like Jesus—they spoke of truth from the heart and illustrated
compassion—and obviously people were astonished, too.

Thank you to everyone who heard and Responded by being Christian Disciples and for being a
wonderful example of what our Catholic faith is truly all about.