Pursue Jesus
Gospel Reflection for February 10, 2025
“After making the crossing, they came to land at Gennesaret and tied up there. As they were leaving the boat, people immediately recognized him. They scurried about the surrounding country and began to bring in the sick on mats to wherever they heard he was. Whatever villages or towns or countryside he entered, they laid the sick in the marketplaces and begged him that they might touch only the tassel on his cloak; and as many as touched it were healed.” (Mark 6:53-56 NABRE)
Many people believed in Jesus and pursued Him, regardless of the obstacles they faced, in order to get to Him. Wherever He went, people faithfully sought to follow Him, find Him, and be healed by Him. They did not let distance, illness, or any adversities get in the way of being able to approach Jesus and be near to Him. And many who did this, received healing.
Do we pursue Jesus like this in our own lives?
Do we go the distance that is necessary to be close to Jesus? Or do we let obstacles get in the way of our relationship with Him?
Unlike the people in today’s Gospel passage, we do not need to physically travel in order to speak with Jesus. We can ceaselessly communicate with our Lord in prayer at all times. As such, regardless of what we have going on in our lives, we must always prioritize time with our Lord.
In order to be close to Jesus and to have an intimate relationship with Him, we must place Him first in our lives. We must not allow other things to steal our attention and focus away from God. We must spend time in prayer and in the Word of God in order to foster our relationship with Him. We must do what it takes to be near to Jesus, just like the people in today’s Gospel!
May we pray for God’s grace to have the strength, guidance, and courage to leave everything behind, root out the vices and sins in our lives, and do what it takes to have a close relationship with our loving Savior. May we find fulfillment and healing in Him.
“Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thess. 5:16-18)
A fantastic reflection on today’s gospel. One that gives me hope.
This gospel always makes me thin\k about how the people knew where Jesus was going and got there before he did. Knowing the will of God something I find so challenging. You have the key which is prayer. Sometimes I even ask his mother where her Son is going so I can be on the same page. Perseverance is always helpful. Thanks for this reflection.