The Holy Martyrs Adrian and Natalia (286-305); Vyshhorod Icon of the Mother of God (Our Lady of Vladimir)
Read
2 Corinthians 5:10-15; Mark 1:9-15
Today’s Gospel is Jesus’ inaugural address, setting the tone for the whole of his preaching. Mark tells us that he was proclaiming the Good News of God and that this was “the time of fulfilment.”
Something was being brought to completion. What was it? It was everything that the Old Testament had spoken of. Jesus gathered up in his person everything that Israel was about—and this is why his presence was so compelling and why following him was of paramount importance. This is why he says, “Repent and believe in the good news.” The Good News is him. So now it’s time to make a decision.
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, this is the whole story. Everything else is commentary. We are meant to see ourselves in first apostles Simon and Andrew, in James and John who heard Jesus. When Jesus passes by, we have to respond. The time is now.