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Gospel of Mark 1:29-39
On leaving the synagogue Jesus entered the house of Simon and Andrew with James and John. Simon's mother-in-law lay sick with a fever. They immediately told him about her. He approached, grasped her hand, and helped her up. Then the fever left her and she waited on them. When it was evening, after sunset, they brought to him all who were ill or possessed by demons.......Rising very early before dawn, he left and went off to a deserted place where he prayed.
Jesus in action We see Jesus in action on the spiritual battlefield, healing the sick and casting out demons from the possessed. Word of his amazing healing powers is sweeping throughout the land of Judea. People are flocking in great numbers to hear Jesus preach. Although Jesus and his disciples welcome the people, it drains them both physically and mentally. In the early morning before dawn, Jesus decides to go off alone to a deserted place to pray. His action turns into contemplation. He desires private time in prayer in order to rejuvenate his mind, body and heart. Jesus' mission on earth is a serious one that requires courage, persistence, dedication, and strength. He cannot do it alone without the guidance of his Father above.
Jesus in contemplation Prayer is a sustaining life force. Prayer is a way of keeping Our Lord close to our hearts. Prayer is a way of sharing our most intimate secrets and longings without fear of judgment or ridicule. Through regular prayer, we set aside time to speak to the Lord, patiently listening to his response. Sometimes the response isn't always immediate. We may see an "answer" to our prayers by observing the action of others, or our "answer" may be dead silence. Think about Jesus questioning God during his crucifixion: "My God, My God why have you forsaken me?" Our Lord clearly doesn't respond to Christ. It's only later we understand the full effect of God "forsaking" Jesus. Jesus Christ was meant to die for our sins - salvation is a part of God's master plan.
Called to Action & Contemplation As Christians, we are called to action and contemplation. It's very important for us to act in ways that are loving, caring and respectful. Our actions oftentimes speak louder than words. We may bend on our knees in prayer, but then ignore the signs of action affecting a situation we face. I think of the drug addict or alcoholic who prays asking for God's healing from addiction but then refuses to attend an AA meeting. Of course, there's always the opposite situation when someone is too busy in action but spends little time contemplating! For example, a person may be so busy moving up the corporate ladder that they fail to stop and contemplate how much God has blessed them. Action and contemplation go hand in hand. One cannot be sufficient without the other. Our Lord calls us to pray and to follow him.
Let us take time out of our day to say a prayer of thanksgiving. Let us take a moment to act in a way that demonstrates to another person that they are loved.
-J.
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