Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Readings: Jonah 3:1-5, 10 | Ps. 25:4-9 | 1 Cor. 7:29-31 | Mk. 1:14-20
We hear the word “repent” in both Jonah and Mark. The word repent comes from the Greek word metaneo (which means “to know after”) or to change one’s mind. Thus when the Nenevites heard Jonah they changed their mind and actions and asked forgiveness for their sins. When Jesus asks the people to repent, He also asks them to believe the good news. Likewise Jesus asks us to change our minds and actions, that is, to change from doing things that are evil and to begin to do good. You are asked to change from ignoring good things that we should be doing and begin to do them. If we change our actions, God can change His mind as we see that God does not destroy Ninevah.
When have you been inspired to change your behavior in one way or another? Did you do so? Why? How might God be calling you today to change your mind, your behavior? How will you respond?