A Sudden Ending to Encourage Action

The Roman Catholic Lectionary today presents the ending to the Gospel of Mark. The ending is very short. The Gospel of Mark is also the shortest of the four accounts. Some commentators point out that the Gospel was likely written to be read aloud to early assemblies of followers of Jesus. The text today from the Book of Acts underlines how action speaks so much stronger than words. The religious authorities see ordinary simple men who have acted in the name of Jesus to present a powerful sign of the nature of Jesus and His mission. The effect on Peter and John of their openness to be witnesses is a new strength and conviction in the intimacy with the Divine that they have experienced. The psalmist proclaims the marvellous strength and help of the Lord which has “become my salvation”. Those who witness to the power of acting on the intimate relationship offered by God are strengthened and supported by that action. The urgency is reflected in the final words of St Francis “Let us begin again, for until now we have done nothing. May each of us do our share to spread the Gospel, the true Catholic faith!”.