NOTES for Mar 1:40-45
The Gospel repeatedly contains episodes in which people healed by Jesus begin to spread word of His powers despite His direct prohibition. The same pattern constantly repeats in our lives: the Lord helps us—we act according to the proverb, “Once things are good, do not seek anything better”—He forgives us—we ask Him for help—He helps us—and it all begins again. Another frequently repeated episode is when Jesus tries to be alone and pray; the disciples find Him and once again call Him “to work,” which continues until late at night. It is the same pattern: people respond to Jesus’ boundless mercy and generosity with ingratitude and simply use Him for their own benefit. Of course, we cannot live without God’s help, and Jesus “came for this purpose,” to preach and to heal—you and me. So we cannot relate to Him entirely “without self-interest.” But at least we can avoid being ungrateful! At least we can try to obey Him and fulfill the commandment of love that He gave us. Otherwise, the result is somehow unbecoming... and this “unbecomingness” greatly clouds and darkens our relationship with Him.