give him the key to the city
“Before long the whole town was gathered outside the door.” —Mark 1:33
Capernaum was like most towns. Many of its people “through fear of death had been slaves their whole life long” (Heb 2:15). Of course, there were many “who were variously afflicted” (Mk 1:34), including Simon’s mother-in-law who “lay ill with a fever” (Mk 1:30). Also, demons had oppressed the people of Capernaum for as long as anyone could remember (see Mk 1:34).
However, this day was going to be different. Jesus came to town and demons, sickness, and fear left town. This was the best day in Capernaum’s history.
Jesus got up very early the next morning. His Father told Him not to stay at Capernaum but to “move on to the neighboring villages” and “proclaim the good news there also” (Mk 1:38).
Jesus is willing to come to your town. Will you give Him the “key to the city” and the key to your heart? Let Jesus be Lord of your town and your life.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, I will let You have Your way.
Promise: “Rising early the next morning, He went off to a lonely place in the desert; there He was absorbed in prayer.” —Mk 1:35
Praise: Angela prays daily for peace in her household, neighborhood, city, state, country and world.
Reference: (An important retreat for all God’s faithful lay members will be held on Feb. 17-18 in the Cincinnati area, Discovering the Essential Role of the Lay Person in God’s Plan of Salvation. The Church needs strong lay leaders to bring new life and love into the Church and the world. E-mail retreats@presentationministries.com to register.)
Rescript: In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period from December 1, 2022, through January 31, 2023. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio April 12, 2022
The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.