Reflection for January 12 Monday of the First Week in Ordinary Time: Mark 1:14-20

Gospel Mark 1:14-20

After John had been arrested, Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the Gospel of God: “This is the time of fulfillment. The Kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the Gospel.”   

As he passed by the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting their nets into the sea; they were fishermen. Jesus said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Then they left their nets and followed him. 

He walked along a little farther and saw James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John. They too were in a boat mending their nets. Then he called them. So they left their father Zebedee in the boat along with the hired men and followed him.

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Reflection:

A father would always call his children to come home for lunch as they played in front of their house. The moment the children heard his voice, they would immediately pack up their things and respond to his call. Why? For the simple reason that he is their father—the one who takes care of them, who feeds them, and who lovingly gives his time to them.

In much the same way, the first disciples responded to the call of Jesus. They knew something that we often forget or fail to recognize; that is why they were able to leave everything and follow Him. Jesus did not verbally promise them anything.

Yet perhaps He was already speaking silently to their hearts—that if they responded, they would gain a new perspective on life and even on eternity. Perhaps they trusted that if they followed Him, He would take care of them for the rest of their lives.

And now, that same Jesus is calling us.

What is it that keeps us from responding to His call? Are we afraid of losing our financial security? Are we afraid to leave behind our family and friends? Are we afraid to abandon the sinful lifestyle that has already become part of our daily routine? We are only pilgrims on a temporary journey in this world. Whatever worldly things we presently have are passing and fleeting; one day, we will leave them all behind.

Jesus continues to call us to follow Him and to leave behind whatever worldliness and sinfulness we cling to. His call still sounds the same: “Follow me and leave behind your sinful life. Follow me and begin to live a fulfilled, peaceful, and truly meaningful life.”

Perhaps Jesus is not asking us to leave our present place or change our surroundings. Perhaps He is asking something deeper and more difficult: to follow Him right where we are by leaving behind whatever sin binds our hearts today. And He gently assures us, “Do not be afraid. I will take care of you. I will never leave you alone.”

So today, as we hear His voice calling us once more, what is it that we are still holding on to? What nets, comforts, or sins are we afraid to leave behind—and are we finally ready to trust Him enough to rise, follow Him, and let Him lead us into the life He has promised? — Marino J. Dasmarinas