Sunday’s Reflection: In this text from Mark, we see three important points about Mark’s Jesus and one of his important practices. First, we see Jesus’ authority at the beginning. Jesus is healing the sick and driving out demons. People want to be present to that authority; in verse 33, we see that “the whole town was gathered around the door.” Another point worth noting is that Jesus makes sure that who he is remains a secret. In verse 34, Jesus “would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew him.” The final point, from verse 38, is that Jesus’ purpose for his ministry is preaching: “Let us go on to the neighboring towns, so that I may proclaim the message there also; for that is what I came out to do.”

The important practice that we see Jesus undertake is in verse 35. He went off to a solitary place where he prayed. This is a practice that we need to form. Going to a solitary place forms both our outsides and insides. It is important to find a place to be with God – a space in your home, a walk, or a chair that envelops you. We also must find an internal solitary place, so that we can slow our minds, breathing prayer in and out. What is your current prayer practice? What are some examples of solitary places, both on the outside and the inside, where you can go for prayer? (Resources are from, Sermon that works)

Vicar’s Note: We are now in the process of preparing our Lenten study series. If you have any ideas, topics or reading materials that you wish to share, please let me know and we can discuss this matter. 

Our parish has organized a work party on Thursday, Feb. 11, 10m. Please feel free to assist for major cleanup around the church property. Bring your gloves and rakes.  We will have bags. Cleanup will be trash if there is any, leaves and lots of branches fall. Hope to see everyone there, as many people make for much lighter work for all.