2^nd Sunday after Pentecost
June 7, 2015

What frames the central truth of our lives?

Imagine a picture that has been beautifully matted and framed. The matting material has been cut with great precision, and sets off the picture from its frame with a color that both contrasts and complements the colors in the painting. The frame itself gives structure to the artwork. Its form is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The overall effect is satisfying and complete. The painting looks finished. Its frame and matting are not distracting. They focus attention on the artwork itself.

In today’s passage from the Gospel of Mark, we are given a beautifully framed and matted picture. Mark has taken great care to frame the central idea inside a pair of contrasting, yet complementary ideas. We pick up the story just after Jesus has chosen his twelve disciples. As we join these disciples at Jesus’ feet, we are about to witness our Lord face opposition from two different camps. Continue reading →