Faith not merely in ritual observances but in Christ

Author: Fr. Amala Gnana Prabhu Jesuraj
Change the old ways and Renew in Christ
Reflection Date: January 20, 2025 Monday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time
Daily Readings: Hebrews 5:1-10; Mark 2:18-22

In Mark 2:18-22, we encounter a powerful teaching moment that reveals the heart of Jesus’ ministry and the radical nature of the Kingdom of God. The passage presents a poignant dialogue between Jesus and those questioning why His disciples do not fast, as was customary for the followers of John the Baptist and the Pharisees. In His response, Jesus employs the metaphor of weddings and wineskins, demonstrating the transformative reality of His presence.

The image of a wedding feast symbolises joy, celebration, and God’s relationship with His people. By referring to Himself as the Bridegroom, Jesus announces the arrival of something new and joyous – the arrival of God's Kingdom. Just as a bridegroom’s presence at a wedding banishes mourning, so too does Jesus’ presence bring joy that transcends the old fasting practices. This shows that true faith is found in the person of Christ, and not in ritual observance. Jesus’s metaphor of new wineskins highlights the need to adapt our faith understanding. The wineskins represent traditional views that can hinder spiritual progress, while new wine represents the transformative power of Jesus’ teachings. The image illustrates that the old frameworks do not fit with God’s dynamic reality. This should encourage everyone to stand ready to embrace His new beginning.

Ask ourselves if our religious customs show our relationship with Jesus in a real way or are just old habits. Jesus wants us to be happy, to change and let go of the old ways not in line with his offer of a renewed life. 

A Call to Action for Catholic Living: Embrace the joy and renewal Christ offers in your daily life by letting go of outdated practices that no longer reflect His transformative love, and cultivate a vibrant, dynamic faith rooted in a true relationship with Him. Be a living witness to the Kingdom of God, open to His call for change and new beginnings.