As we begin the liturgical season of Ordinary Time in the Christian tradition, we are invited to reflect on the daily readings. For this first week of the season, the first readings come from an unknown author directed at the somewhat ambiguous audience in early Christianity known as “the Hebrews.” The Gospel readings during Ordinary Time are focused on Jesus and his actions and words, but mostly his actions, in the Gospel of Mark. Please consider writing your own responses to the reflection questions below, or to reply to other peoples’ contributions. (painting below by Paul Gauguin)

Here are the readings for January 15, 2025 from the Letter to the Hebrews and from the Gospel of Mark.

1. What do you believe that the author of the book of Hebrews is saying to the audience about the simple but difficult dispositions Christians should have in their interactions with other people and with the world?
2. In Mark, Jesus’ disciples do not understand why he left the crowd to be alone and pray. Consider when you have the opportunity to do as Jesus did, for however short a time, but choose not to and revert to a familiar pattern or behavior. How can you break this cycle of inertia?

Read page 5 of the Fundamental Principles of the Xaverian Brothers.

How does the author of the Fundamental Principles emphasize the dispositions and practices of Jesus from the previous readings, and how does the author encourage us to persevere in being countercultural?

Above photo of Br. Harry Eccles, CFX and Br. Richard Mazza, CFX at the Sant in Haiti.