The Question about David’s Son

Today's Reflections

 

The Question about David’s Son

Mk 12:35-37

³⁵As Jesus was teaching in the temple area he said, “How do the scribes claim that the Messiah is the son of David? ³⁶David himself, inspired by the holy Spirit, said:
‘The Lord said to my lord,
“Sit at my right hand until I place your enemies under your feet.” ’
³⁷David himself calls him ‘lord’; so how is he his son?” [The] great crowd heard this with delight.

Reflection: 
The Messiah is the son of David. The Jews believe that the promised Messiah will come from the lineage of King David. They expect that the Messiah will restore the grandeur and glory of Israel, give them a period of peace and unity, and liberate the Jews from the oppression of foreign rule. In other words, the Jews are expecting a political Messiah, a powerful and glorious one.

Jesus proclaims that he is the awaited Messiah. He is also a descendant of David. But to correct the traditional view of the Jews, Jesus is more than the son of David. His rule is not political but is a reign of love and forgiveness. His messianic role transcends blood relationships or a chosen nation. His mission goes beyond traditional beliefs and customs. He is for all. He saves all.

Jesus is Lord, that is, he is one with the Father from the beginning of time. And his divine plan is to liberate all from the slavery of sin and of Satan. He will do it not through power or glory but by service to all. Thus, Jesus is the promised Messiah but, in contrast to the political expectations of the Jews, he performs the works of a slave. He saves by being a servant. His salvation is through his selfless service. Jesus comes not “to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mk 10:45).

How willing are you to walk with,work for, suffer for, and bear witness to Jesus?