A Homily on Mark 1 21-28 : Live what you Preach (13-1-26)

A reflection on Mark 1 21-28 showing how true authority comes from living what we teach, not just speaking.( 13-1-25)

Praise be to Jesus Christ 

In a village, there was a teacher who was always considered a man of integrity. One day, a wealthy man approached him, saying, “I want you to teach my son not to lie.” The teacher listened and said, “Bring him back to me in a month.” The man was confused and asked, “Why not just advise him now? That should be enough.” However, the teacher firmly insisted, “Come back after one month.”

A month later, the man returned with his son. The teacher sat near the boy and gently said, “My child, always speak the truth, for lying brings harm to yourself and others.” The father was curious and asked the teacher why he had waited so long to give such simple advice to his son. The teacher replied, “I needed to ensure that I was living honestly in every small detail before I could ask your son to do the same.” This story reminds us that true authority comes from living what we teach. It is not imposed but earned, and it inspires others because it is authentic.

In today’s Gospel, we see this truth in Jesus. When He teaches in the synagogue, the people are amazed, saying, “He teaches with authority, not like the scribes.” What made Jesus different? The scribes relied on their positions and knowledge of the law, but their lives often failed to reflect the values they taught. Jesus, on the other hand, lived everything He preached. His life was a perfect harmony of words and actions. This is moral authority, and it is far more powerful than physical authority.

We see the power of this authority when Jesus confronts the unclean spirit. The spirit recognises who He is and trembles, crying out, “I know who you are, the Holy One of God!” With a simple command, Jesus drives it out. The people are amazed and say, “Even the unclean spirits obey Him!” Jesus does not shout or threaten. His authority flows from His holiness, integrity, and union with God.

This Gospel challenges us to reflect on the kind of authority we seek in our lives. Physical authority, positions, titles, or power, can control people outwardly, but it cannot change their hearts. Moral authority, on the other hand, touches the soul and inspires transformation. We gain moral authority when we live in alignment with our values, when our actions reflect our words, and when we exemplify the teachings of Christ in our lives.

We see the same challenge in modern life. Many parents tell their children not to spend too much time on their mobile phones. “Read, pray, and spend time together,” they say. But if the parents themselves spend hours scrolling and watching videos, the children notice. The advice may be wise, but it loses authority. Words alone cannot change hearts; only a life that matches what is taught carries real power.

Saint Francis of Assisi once said, “Preach the Gospel at all times. If necessary, use words.” This reminds us that our lives are the most powerful sermon we can give. People may not listen to what we say, but they will notice how we live. Are we living in a way that reflects the love, truth, and compassion of Jesus? Do our actions match our words?

Let us strive to follow the example of Jesus, whose moral authority brought healing and freedom to those around Him. May we live with integrity, so that our lives become a witness to the Gospel and inspire others to draw closer to God.

Lord Jesus, help us live what we preach and teach. Amen

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God Bless…