Greg Friedman, OFM

Jesus must remind his disciples once again that the Kingdom demands a lot of the disciple. True greatness lies in service. True disciples take the side of those who are powerless.

In today’s Second Reading we hear that violence starts from within the human heart. But from God comes the possibility of peace.

In this Gospel passage, Mark and his community of faith are witnessing that Jesus is the one who will fulfill all our dreams for healing, wholeness, and peace.

There is a place for law and for structure within our lives as Christians. But we must always keep the purpose in mind–centered on the person of Jesus Christ and his law of love.

Can we make a public choice for Jesus as we approach to receive the Body and Blood of Christ? Our firm, faith-filled “Amen” is a response to the Lord who is present in this great sign of our salvation.

Our Catholic belief is that Mary was assumed body and soul into heaven, to share in the resurrection of Christ her son. Besides celebrating Mary, this feast also holds a promise of hope for each of us.