Fr. Frank Majka, SJ – The Bridge

Mark’s “Strong Man” Jesus

Each gospel writer has his own way of presenting the work of Jesus. At the beginning of his gospel, Mark makes it clear that Jesus had come to overthrow the power and rule of Satan. The demons Jesus expels from a possessed man, in fact, ask Jesus directly, “Have you come to destroy us?” and Jesus basically tells them to shut up and leave. For Mark, Jesus is the “strong man” committed to pillaging and destroying the house of Satan.

Maybe you think of your faith as a pretty tame affair: praying and worshiping, leading a good life, treating other people with respect, and reaching out to those in need. But have you ever thought that when you do these things, you are actually participating in Jesus’ campaign to overthrow what opposes God’s reign?

When we do good, loving things and refuse to support what is wrong, we are participating in Jesus’ mission to transform the world — especially our little piece of that world — into God’s kingdom.