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To grid one's loins is to gather strength and show courage. Despite the personal loss, Jeremiah must resolutely proclaim the Word. Indeed opposition to him will be formidable. However, God will provide the prophet with the best of military hardware (fortified city, etc). Ultimately the opposition will not prevail since God is determined to support Jeremiah through thick and thin.
Mark has sandwiched the account about the Baptist between the sending out of the disciples and their return. By so doing, Mark is implying that to be a disciple may demand the ultimate test, that is persecution and death. Through this technique Mark envisions the courage and commitment of the Baptist as the model to be emulated by his audience.
The careers of Jeremiah and John the Baptist are examples of the ultimate loyalty and the fiercest dedication. They must impact our own lives. To what extent are we willing to let God's Word determine the thrust of our vocation? How committed are we to our pledged word?
In You, O Lord, I take refuge. Amen.
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DAILY OFFERING
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Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.
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PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
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INTENTION
That Christians be sensitive to the needs of everyone, without ever hiding the radical requirements of the Gospel message.
Elaboration
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