Unlearn Unlove – Repent

The Gospel of Mark (MK 1:14-20) brings us to the beginning. A new start for the Gospel message. In Jesus’ first statements he proclaims the ‘gospel of God’ announcing the time of fulfillment.

The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.

It might be helpful to take a step back. At the time of Jesus’ arrival the Hellenistic influence was in full force. The central difficulty was, by and large, humanity was created for the amusement for the gods.

If this were true, as so many believed during the time of Jesus, the human condition is quite dire.

Entertainment

Imagine a world where we are here for the amusement of the gods. Every whim and desire would be foisted up on us. We would be motivated to vie for the attention of the gods. Each of us would be in competition to have the gods look favorably upon us. We would live in fear where each day we would wonder ‘Are the gods angry? What did we do wrong? How can we fix it?

Imitation

The nature of humanity would be skewed. Our value system would be self-centered in imitation of the gods. Affection and love would be a reward not a freely given gift.

Unlearn Unlove

The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.

Through the week this week we read of the Old Testament examples of men imperfectly expressing God’s benevolence.

• Jonah’s message to Nineveh
• David and Saul

Well, they tried. But they are good examples of men emulating a loving God based on inspiration. One on one instruction was needed.

The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.

Jesus has come and plans to teach men face-to-face how to be like the Father. Simon and Andrew James and John, all learning a new way to imitate a loving God. Let him show us too!

Peace be with you.

Deacon Gerry