Jesus and his disciples went to Capernaum; and when the
Sabbath came, he entered the synagogue and taught. The
people were astounded at his teaching, for he taught them as one
having authority and not as the scribes (Mk1:21-22).
As we enter into this First Week in Ordinary Time, we are given
the image of Jesus teaching in the synagogue. And as He
teaches, it’s clear that there is something special about Him. He
is one who teaches with a new authority.
This statement in Mark’s Gospel contrasts Jesus with the scribes
who apparently teach without this unmistakable authority. This
statement should not go unnoticed.
Jesus exercised authority in His teaching not so much because He
wanted to, but because He had to. This is who He is. He is God
and when He speaks, He speaks with the authority of God. He
speaks in such a way that people know His words have
transforming meaning. His words effect change in people’s
lives.
This should invite each one of us to reflect upon the authority of
Jesus in our lives. Do you notice His authority spoken to you?
Do you see His words, spoken in Sacred Scripture, having an
effect upon your life?
Let us today reflect upon this image of Jesus teaching in the
synagogue, recognizing that the “synagogue” represents our own
self and that Jesus desires to be there speaking to us with
authority. Let His words sink in and change our lives.