Jesus offered Himself for us once and for all

Heb. 9:2-3.11-14, Mk 3:20-21. The author of today’s first reading is very much aware of the significance of the Temple and how blood sacrifices were made throughout Hebrew history. He recalls the fact that the blood sacrifices of animals in the Temple had to be made repeatedly. Each time the sacrifice was offered, the old covenant was renewed and made binding on the people. A New Covenant is now in effect which surpasses the covenant of old. This New Covenant is also a blood covenant, but since it was made by a perfect Priest, it needs to be done but once.

Thus, we are united with God through the blood of Jesus in this perfect sacrifice that was done once and for all. The blood symbol refers to life rather than death, though it was by His death that the veil of the Temple was rent in two and Jesus entered into the Father’s presence. His death on the Cross became the supreme sign of loving dedication to us, to bring us to the Father. Jesus so dedicated to His healing ministry that sometimes He hardly had time to eat. In today’s Gospel, His dealing with the crowds was so hectic that His relatives thought He was out of His mind. We might experience similar reactions when we strive to share in the mission of Christ. They may call us hypocrites or avoid us because of the company we keep. All we can do is to remain faithful to the mission of Christ and let selfless love be our guide.

May the Lord watch over our thoughts and words, that they may be the true and proper reflections of His image in us, so that we may seek His guidance, to be truly kind and loving, helpful and healing, yet always filled with humility and free from any trace of arrogance! Amen!! Good morning and happy weekend!!!