Scripture Study for
Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Leviticus 13:1–2, 44–46 / Psalm 32:7 / 1 Corinthians 10:31 — 11:1 / Mark 1:40–45
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Understanding the Word
By Br. John R. Barker, OFM
To appreciate the general horror with which lepers were regarded, one has to understand that their disease rendered them ritually unclean. Most in ancient Israel recognized that lepers were not to blame for their condition, but the fact remained that their presence was a threat because contact with them would render one ritually unclean as well. This ritual uncleanness made it impossible to approach the tabernacle or any cultic site. The priests, as guardians of the sacred spaces, were tasked with determining who or what was ritually unclean or clean. Although social isolation and ostracism were the accidental consequences of what was a purely practical separation, they were the inevitable sad result, adding further pain to the physical condition itself.
Just previous to the present reading, Paul has been counseling the Corinthians to use their Christian freedom responsibly, making sure they do nothing to harm the consciences of others. Specifically, Christians who eat meat sacrificed to idols with a clear conscience should not insist on their “right” to do so if it causes scandal. Charity overrules individual rights (10:23–30). No matter what we do, we must do it for the glory of God. Christians have been “purchased at a price” and now belong to the Lord: “Therefore glorify God with your body” (6:20). Christians are at all times to imitate Christ, who sought not his own benefit “but that of the many,” and so gave glory to God.
Already in last week’s Gospel we had indications of a peculiarity of Mark’s Gospel: Jesus’ frequent warnings not to tell anyone about him. Then, the demons were not permitted to speak. Now, the leper is told to keep his mouth shut after he is healed. Scholars suggest the secretiveness is because Jesus knows that the people will proclaim him prematurely as the Messiah, and perhaps bring unwelcome attention from the authorities. Whatever the reason for the warning, the man ignores it completely, immediately telling everyone what Jesus has done for him. The reign of God, now unleashed through Christ, has too powerful an effect to remain hidden for long.