Scripture: Hebrews 2:14-18. Psalm 105:1-9. Mark1:29-39:

Today's Gospel selection from Mark could be entitled "A Day in the Life of
Jesus." He leaves the synagogue and in Capharnaum then enters the home of
Peter and Andrew to heal the mother-in-law of Peter. The narrative is
typical of Mark's swift style with the dynamic use of the present tense in
his narrative. In this he would please an teacher of English looking for
such use of the present tense in the reports and essays that are assigned.
The healing of the woman takes place immediately. I admire the fact that
the initial call to the four disciples has been successful and we find them
experiencing the healing power of the Lord as Jesus lifts her up. I am
sure that Mark's community caught the verb that he is using for lifting her
up. It is also used for resurrection narratives and can be translated
"raises her up." The woman is cured of her burning fever (possibly very
high blood pressure) and she then serves them. Here we have another cue
for the community who would understand the call to ministry. The word used
is the same as that used for the work or ministry of a deacon--serving the
community (diakonein). Jesus' power is not only to cure us but after our
dying to this life, Jesus raises us up to new life with God. Mark
continues on with this day in the life of Jesus and tells us how many came
and were healed. Jesus leaves and heads for some deserted place where he
can commune with his Father in prayer. But our ever-present four: Peter,
Andrew, James, and John search and find him. He is told everyone is
looking for you. Jesus then says that he must move on and bring the good
news to other villages. His mission will not be accomplished until he is
crucified and raised from the dead. We the readers who believe see in
this passage Resurrection theology which springs from the life, suffering,
death, and resurrection of Jesus. We are the new helpers of the Lord in
bringing the good news to others just as the four apostles did in their
time. We can learn a lesson from Peter's mother-in-law and be lifted up by
Jesus from our pain and sorrow and even death, but now we get up in order
to serve others and bring them the good news that Jesus is Lord. Amen.