THE TRUE IDENTITY OF JESUS (Who do you say that I am?)
First Reading: Isaiah 50: 5-9
Second Reading: James 2: 14-18
Gospel Reading: Mark 8: 27-35
*First reading is from the book of Prophet Isaiah. The sufferings and the rejections experienced by Isaiah from the chosen people are narrated. In spite of that, he assures us that although many people tried to disgrace him and harm him in various ways, the one who trusts in the Lord God will not be harmed in anyway. He tells us that the Lord God vindicates and protects such a person. There is an allusion to the rejection of the suffering servant (Jesus) of the Lord God. Further it points to Jesus who will undergo all manner of sufferings at the hands of the Jewish nation.
Second reading is from the letter of St. James. The Apostle exhorts the Christian community that faith in itself is of no use if it is not accompanied by action. He gives the specific example of a person who is hungry and that of another who has no clothing. It is not enough to tell the first person, be filled or the other, be warmed and make no effort to give them food or clothing. Hence our faith should lead us to action.
'You are the Christ-the Messiah' (The confession of St. Peter) Today's Gospel reading is from St. Mark. Jesus gives us some important clarifications about Himself and His divine mission. On His way to the village Caesarea Philippi, Jesus puts two important questions to His disciples. First, 'Who do men say that I am?' The disciples gave various answers: some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah or one of the ancient Prophets etc.. Then Jesus puts a second question to them. 'Who do you say that I am?' Immediately St. Peter confessed, 'You are the Christ' - the Messiah - the anointed one of God. Subsequently Jesus tries to explain to them what it means to be the Messiah or the Christ. It would mean that He has to suffer much and die. The disciples could not comprehend or appreciate such an answer from their Master. Hence they vehemently protested saying: such a thing should never happen. Then Jesus patiently explains to them that to be His disciple would mean that one should take up one's cross and follow Him. Whoever wants to be first has to be the servant of all. Jesus is putting the same question to each one of us. Each one has to make a personal decision regarding who Jesus is for him/her. To be a part of Jesus' life would mean that we have to die to our selfishness and pride every day of our lives.
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