Theme of the Day: Revealed As The Prophet With Authority
Authority is the power to determine what happens, the ability to give direction or even commands. Authority is limited. Authority is limited in duration. Parents have authority over their children until they grow up and move out. Authority is limited in scope. A governor has authority over the people of his state only, not the neighboring state. Authority is limited by levels. A manager has authority over employees unless the company owner—a higher authority—demotes him. Authority is limited in duration and scope. It is limited by higher levels of authority.
This week we see that there is one man—only one!—who has absolute authority. There is no one, not even the demons, who is outside his authority. As the Son of God there is no higher authority than Jesus. And his authority is everlasting. But here is the best part of this epiphany: Jesus graciously uses his absolute authority for our benefit and blessing.
Mark 1:21-28
Deuteronomy 18:15-20
Hebrews 3:1-6
Psalm 29
537 – Word of God, Come Down on Earth
744 – Rise, Shine, You People
629 – O God from God, O Light from Light
769 – Your Hand, O Lord, in Days of Old
Prayer of the Day: Almighty and everlasting God, look with mercy on our weaknesses, and in all our dangers and needs stretch out the right hand of your majesty to help and defend us; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Gospel Acclamation: Alleluia. The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority. Alleluia.