The Catholic Parish of
Saint John Henry Newman

 Covering most of East Leeds

The Word This Week Mark 1:29-39

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Mark 1:29-39


This passage contains three stories and there is food for thought in each of them.

1. The first story (vv. 29-31) is one of healing. You might reflect on times when you were sick in body, mind or spirit and someone was a ‘Jesus person' to you, someone who ‘took you by the hand and lifted you up'. Remember them with gratitude. Have there been times also when you did this for others?

2. The second story (vv. 32-34) adds another dimension. People are freed from demons. Have you had the experience of being freed from demons that imprisoned you: fear, anxiety, guilt, low self-esteem, addictions, bitterness, etc.? What was it like for you to get that freedom? Who were the ‘Jesus people' who helped to free you?

3. The third story (vv. 35-39) has a number of different elements we can consider
A) Jesus goes off to a desert place to pray. After a hectic day he felt the need for quiet to ground himself once more. In the busyness of life how do you keep in touch with what is going on inside yourself? How do you keep in touch with God? Where do you find your ‘deserted place'? What difference does it make for you when you do succeed in taking time out?

B) Jesus shows himself as a person seeking to break new ground. The disciples want him to continue ministry where he is. He wants to move on. What has been your experience of breaking new ground, moving beyond your comfort zone, or trying something you had not tried before? When has this had a life-giving effect for you?



Published Sat 3rd Feb 2018 17:11:41
Last Modified on Sat 3rd Feb 2018 17:11:41

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