In this Sunday s Gospel, Jesus addresses a rich man who cannot put God at the center of his life. The journey we are on is a good one, writes Msgr. Joseph Prior, but we face obstacles to an abundant life.
After a brief theological prologue in which he announces in advance who Jesus is (the Christ, the beloved Son inhabited by the Spirit, in whom the expectation of Israel and the vocation of Adam are fulfilled), Mark begins his story proper with an abrupt start.
No sooner has Jesus inaugurated the proclamation of the Kingdom than he immediately adds companions, the first four disciples. It is as though he could not live without community!
From these verses the Evangelist will lead his readers from page to page on a journey. It is one that is sometimes exhilarating and, at other times, difficult and disruptive.