The first Sunday of Lent, Year B focuses our attention on our baptism. The first reading from the conclusion of the account of the Flood reminds us that the hope of the world comes from those who emerge out of the waters. The second reading from 1Peter tells us that the cleansing waters of the flood is a foreshadowing of the waters of baptism from which the Christian emerges and becomes him/herself a carryer of a new hope for the world that awaits the gospel. The Gospel reading from Mark reminds us of the need for continued conversion and the renewal of the faith.
- Mark 1:12-13: The Temptation in the Desert
- Read the explanation found here.
- Mark 1: 14-15: The Beginning of the Ministry
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- After John was put in prison...
- The opening line for the beginning of Jesus' ministry announces the fulfillment of the Baptist's words about the One who comes after him. It is also ominous because with this line Mark is also making a hint at what will happen to Jesus. The Baptist is the Precursor, the one who goes ahead of him. John will be murdered later on; and so too, Jesus.
- The time is fulfilled; the Kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe in the Gospel
- This is a summary of the proclamation of Jesus. All throughout the account of his ministry, this proclamation will always be at the background of every healing, every exorcism, every act of reconciliation he performs. The announcement that the Kingdom of God is near is Jesus' main proclamation. The imperatival "Repent and believe in this Good News" is the consequence of that proclamation.
Kingdom of God
The Greek phrase "basileia tou theou" has two connotations, one dynamic and the other static. It can mean "the reign of God" (dynamic) or "kingdom of God" (static). The dynamic connotation refers to the way God exercises his Lordship over men; the static meaning refers to the place where God acts as Lord. God establishing peace and justice is "the reign of God"; God establishing peace and justice among his people is "kingdom of God." Jesus will be making references to both these meanings of "Kingdom of God" in his ministry.
Repent
The Greek verb "metanoiein" adds a new dimension to the word for conversion. The Hebrew "shub" and connotes a 180 degree change of direction. Those called to repentance are commanded to "turn" their hearts once more to God. This was the language of the prophets that went before Jesus. The verb used in the Gospel of Mark connotes a change of heart and mind -- it is not only a change of focus but a renewal. Jesus' ministry was intended as a renewal of the faith of Israel that would lead to the moment when God renews his covenant with Israel, a moment announced by the prophets. His job was to gather back the scattered flock. The voice at his baptism has identified him as the Suffering Messiah, the one who must "drink by the wayside" before "he can lift up his head." (cf. Psalm 110:7)
Points for Discussion
1. Lent is the forty-day preparation for Easter where we remember the new life that we have received from Christ at our baptism. During the rites of the Easter Vigil we will renew our baptismal vows: to reject Satan, his works, his lies. How does the account of Jesus' temptation, short though it may be, explain the forty days we are undergoing?
2. The Gospel reading reminds us of the constant need of conversion and renewed faith. What possible resolutions can you make regarding your own baptismal life?
