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The Gospel of Mark is the shortest of the four Gospels in the New Testament. It moves quickly from one event to another. Jesus is often shown in action. There are few long speeches. Instead, we see Jesus healing, teaching, and traveling. The focus is on what He does more than what He says.

Mark’s Gospel was likely the first one written. Most scholars think it was written around the year 70 AD. It may have been based on the teachings of Peter. Mark was not one of the twelve apostles, but he was close to Peter and Paul. His Gospel helps us see Jesus through the eyes of those who followed Him closely.

This Gospel was written for Christians who were suffering. Many were facing persecution. Mark shows a Jesus who understands pain and rejection. Jesus does not avoid suffering. He walks right into it for the sake of others. This is a comfort to those who suffer for their faith.

The Gospel of Mark begins with the baptism of Jesus. It does not include stories about His birth. It ends quickly after the resurrection is announced. Mark’s style is fast and simple. It encourages readers to respond. We are not just told about Jesus. We are invited to follow Him.

Telling the Story in a Time of Trouble

The Gospel of Mark was likely written around 70 AD. This was a hard time for the early Church. Christians were being persecuted. The Temple in Jerusalem had just been destroyed by the Romans. Many people were afraid and confused. Mark’s Gospel was written to give hope.

The author is believed to be John Mark. He was not one of the twelve apostles. But he followed Peter and Paul. He may have written down what Peter preached about Jesus. That is why many think of Mark’s Gospel as Peter’s version of the story.

Mark wrote to Gentile Christians, not just Jewish ones. These were new believers who did not know all the old laws. Mark explained Jewish customs and Aramaic words. This helped new followers understand the story of Jesus more clearly.

His writing style is fast and simple. He used words like “immediately” often. This gives the Gospel a sense of urgency. Mark wanted people to know that the good news of Jesus was something they needed to act on right away.

Fast-Paced and Full of Action

The Gospel of Mark moves quickly. It jumps from one event to the next. Jesus is always doing something—healing, teaching, traveling, or helping others. Mark often uses the word “immediately” to show how fast things are happening. The pace keeps readers alert and engaged.

Mark does not spend much time on long talks or stories. Instead, he focuses on what Jesus does. There are a few parables, but most of the book shows action. This helps readers see Jesus as someone who came to serve and to act.

The writing is simple and clear. Mark uses short sentences and basic words. It feels more like a report than a story. This makes it easier to follow, especially for people who were new to the faith.

Mark also leaves out many details found in the other Gospels. There is no Christmas story. There are fewer teachings. But this style helps us focus on the main point—Jesus is the Son of God, and we are called to follow him.

Following Jesus Isn’t Always Easy

One of the main themes in the Gospel of Mark is discipleship. Jesus calls people to follow Him. But it is not always easy. His followers often struggle to understand Him. They make mistakes. Sometimes they are afraid. But Jesus stays with them. He teaches them with patience.

Mark also shows that Jesus suffers. He is rejected by leaders. He is betrayed by a friend. He is arrested and killed. This reminds Catholics that Jesus knows our pain. He is with us in hard times. The cross is at the center of His mission.

Other key themes in Mark include:

  • Jesus as the Son of God
  • The call to repentance and faith
  • The importance of serving others
  • The coming of God’s kingdom

Mark shows that God’s kingdom grows through small acts of love and service. Catholics believe this connects to the teachings of the Church on mercy, justice, and care for the poor. Jesus shows us how to live with love, even when it is difficult.

The Story in Four Simple Parts

The Gospel of Mark is easy to follow. It can be divided into four main parts. Each part shows a different part of Jesus’ mission. These sections help us understand His journey from baptism to resurrection.

  1. Preparation and Beginning
    Mark 1:1–13
    This part includes the baptism of Jesus and His time in the desert. It sets the stage for His public work.
  2. Ministry in Galilee
    Mark 1:14–8:21
    Jesus travels through Galilee. He teaches, heals, and gathers disciples. Many people follow Him, but some start to question Him.
  3. Journey to Jerusalem
    Mark 8:22–10:52
    Jesus begins to prepare His followers for His death. He explains that following Him means carrying the cross.
  4. Passion, Death, and Resurrection
    Mark 11:1–16:8
    Jesus enters Jerusalem. He is arrested, put to death, and rises from the dead. The Gospel ends with the empty tomb and a message to go and tell others.

These sections help us see the full path of Jesus. From His first steps in the desert to the joy of the resurrection, each part shows what it means to follow Him.

Still Speaking to Us Today

The Gospel of Mark is still important for Catholics today. It reminds us that following Jesus is not always easy. We might feel unsure or weak, just like the first disciples. But Jesus stays close to us and keeps calling us to follow Him.

Mark shows us that Jesus cares for the sick, the poor, and those who are left out. This teaches us to look for people who need help and to care for them. It fits well with the Church’s mission to serve others, especially those who suffer.

This Gospel also reminds us that action matters. Jesus didn’t just talk—He did things. He fed people, healed them, and forgave them. As Catholics, we are called to live our faith in simple ways every day.

Even though Mark was written a long time ago, it still speaks to our world. It shows us how to live with faith, love, and courage.

Mark’s Voice in the Church Year

The Gospel of Mark is used often in the Roman Catholic lectionary. It is the main Gospel for Year B in the Sunday cycle. This means that most Sunday Gospels during that year come from Mark. It gives the whole Church a chance to hear his fast-paced and simple message.

Mark is also used on weekdays and during special feast days. Parts of Mark appear in Lent, Easter, and Ordinary Time. Some of the shorter readings are used for daily Mass. Others are saved for important Sundays.

Even though Mark is the shortest Gospel, it is still full of meaning. The Church includes it often so we do not miss its message. It helps us stay focused on who Jesus is and what He did.

Hearing Mark at Mass reminds us that Jesus came to serve. His life calls us to action. When we listen to Mark, we are reminded to follow Him with our whole lives. Click on a link below for more information and resources for a specific reading.

2nd Sunday of Advent Year B

A New Beginning in the Wilderness

In Mark 1:1-8, we see the beginning of the good news as John the Baptist appears in the desert. He calls people to turn from their sins and be baptized. Many come from the surrounding areas to confess and be washed in the Jordan River. This shows their desire to start fresh and follow God more closely.

John makes it clear that someone greater is coming after him. He is only preparing the way. He baptizes with water, but the one to come will bring something more lasting. This moment sets the tone for Jesus’ mission and reminds us to stay ready for His call.

Baptism of the Lord Year B

A Voice from Heaven

In Mark 1:7-11, John the Baptist speaks to the people about someone greater than himself. He says he is not even worthy to untie His sandals. Then Jesus comes to be baptized by John in the Jordan River. This moment marks the beginning of His public ministry.

As Jesus rises from the water, the heavens open and the Holy Spirit comes down like a dove. A voice from heaven says that Jesus is the beloved Son. This shows that God is pleased with Him. It is a clear sign that Jesus has been chosen to do God’s work.

1st Sunday of Lent Year B

Into the Desert, Then Out to Preach

In Mark 1:12-15, Jesus is sent into the desert by the Spirit. He stays there for forty days and is tempted by Satan. Wild animals are around Him, but angels care for Him. This time in the desert prepares Him for what comes next.

After John the Baptist is arrested, Jesus begins His mission. He goes to Galilee and starts preaching. His message is simple and clear. The time has come to turn back to God and believe in the good news. This is the start of His public work.

3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

A Call That Changes Everything

In Mark 1:14-20, Jesus begins preaching in Galilee after John is arrested. He tells the people to turn back to God and believe the good news. His message is short but strong. The time to act is now.

As He walks by the sea, Jesus sees Simon and Andrew fishing. He calls them to follow Him, and they leave their nets right away. Then He calls James and John, and they also leave everything behind. Jesus is building a new kind of group—one that will help share His message with others.

4th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

A New Teacher with Real Power

In Mark 1:21-28, Jesus teaches in the synagogue, and the people are surprised. He does not teach like others. His words have real power. People can tell that something is different about Him.

While He is teaching, a man with an unclean spirit shouts out. Jesus tells the spirit to leave, and it does. The people are amazed. They have never seen anything like this. News about Jesus begins to spread quickly. Everyone is talking about what they saw and heard.

5th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Healing, Praying, and Moving On

In Mark 1:29-39, Jesus visits Simon’s house and heals Simon’s mother-in-law, who is sick in bed. After that, many people come to Him for healing. He cures the sick and drives out demons. The whole town gathers at the door to see Him.

The next morning, Jesus gets up early and goes off alone to pray. When His followers find Him, He says it’s time to go to other towns. He wants to share the good news everywhere. So they travel through Galilee, and Jesus keeps teaching and healing wherever He goes.

6th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

A Touch That Changes Everything

In Mark 1:40-45, a man with leprosy comes to Jesus and asks to be made clean. Jesus reaches out and touches him, and the man is healed right away. This is something people didn’t usually do, since lepers were kept away from others.

Jesus tells the man not to say anything but to show himself to the priest. Instead, the man talks about it everywhere. Because of this, Jesus can no longer enter towns easily. He stays in quiet places, but people still come to Him from all around.

7th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Faith Through the Roof

In Mark 2:1-12, Jesus is teaching in a crowded house. Four men bring a friend who cannot walk, but they can’t get through the door. So they make a hole in the roof and lower the man down to Jesus. Their strong faith leads to something amazing.

Jesus tells the man his sins are forgiven. Some of the teachers nearby question this. To show He has authority, Jesus also heals the man’s body. The man gets up, takes his mat, and walks out in front of everyone. The crowd is amazed and gives thanks to God.

8th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

New Ways for a New Time

In Mark 2:18-22, some people ask why Jesus’ followers do not fast like others do. Jesus explains that when the bridegroom is present, the guests celebrate. There will be a time for fasting later, but now is a time for joy.

He also talks about new cloth and old garments, and new wine in old skins. These images show that His message is something new. It doesn’t fit into old ways. Jesus is calling people to a fresh start, not just more rules. Something new is beginning with Him.

9th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Doing Good on the Sabbath

In Mark 2:23–3:6, Jesus and His disciples walk through grain fields on the Sabbath. The disciples pick some grain to eat, and some Pharisees say this breaks the rules. Jesus reminds them that human need is more important than strict rules. He says the Sabbath was made for people, not the other way around.

Later, in a synagogue, Jesus sees a man with a withered hand. The leaders watch closely to see if He will heal on the Sabbath. Jesus asks if it is right to do good or harm on this day. Then He heals the man. The leaders become angry and start planning against Him.

10th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Who Belongs to Jesus

In Mark 3:20-35, Jesus is surrounded by crowds again, and there isn’t even time to eat. Some people think He is out of His mind. Others accuse Him of using evil power to cast out demons. Jesus explains that evil cannot fight against itself. A divided house cannot stand.

His family comes, wanting to take Him home. But Jesus says that His true family includes anyone who does God’s will. This teaches us that being close to Jesus is not just about family ties. It is about listening to God and living out His teachings.

11th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Small Seeds, Big Growth

In Mark 4:26-34, Jesus tells two parables about seeds. In the first, a man scatters seed and it grows on its own, even while he sleeps. He doesn’t know how it happens, but one day it’s ready for harvest. This shows how God’s kingdom grows in quiet ways.

In the second parable, Jesus says the kingdom is like a mustard seed. It starts small but becomes a large plant. Birds can even rest in its shade. Jesus often uses simple stories like these so people can understand. The message is clear: even small acts of faith can grow into something much bigger.

12th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Peace in the Storm

In Mark 4:35-41, Jesus and His disciples cross the sea in a boat. A strong storm hits, and the waves crash over the sides. The disciples are afraid. Jesus is asleep, and they wake Him up, asking if He cares that they are in danger.

Jesus stands and tells the wind and sea to be still. Everything becomes calm. The disciples are amazed. They wonder who Jesus really is, since even the wind and waves obey Him. This moment shows that He brings peace even when everything feels out of control.

13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Two People, One Faith

In Mark 5:21-43, a synagogue leader named Jairus begs Jesus to heal his dying daughter. Jesus agrees to go with him. On the way, a woman who has been sick for twelve years touches Jesus’ cloak. She is healed instantly because she believes He can help her.

Jesus stops to speak with the woman, and while He is talking, people come to say Jairus’s daughter has died. Jesus tells Jairus not to be afraid. He goes to the house, takes the girl by the hand, and she gets up. Both the woman and the girl are healed through faith.

14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Too Familiar to Believe

In Mark 6:1-6, Jesus returns to His hometown and teaches in the synagogue. At first, people are amazed. But then they start to question Him. They remember Him as a carpenter and think He’s just one of them. Because of this, they don’t believe in Him.

Jesus is surprised by their lack of faith. He is only able to heal a few sick people there. Then He moves on to other villages. This shows that sometimes the people closest to us can have the hardest time seeing what we are called to do.

15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Sent with a Simple Mission

In Mark 6:7-13, Jesus sends out the twelve apostles in pairs. He gives them power over unclean spirits and tells them to travel light—no food, money, or extra clothes. They are to rely on the hospitality of others as they go.

Jesus tells them to stay in one place when welcomed and to leave if they are not accepted. The apostles go out and preach that people should turn back to God. They also heal the sick and cast out demons. Their simple message and trust in God’s care are part of their mission.

16th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Rest Interrupted by Compassion

In Mark 6:30-34, the apostles return to Jesus and tell Him all they have done. He invites them to go to a quiet place to rest. They are tired and need a break from the crowds.

But people see them leaving and follow. When Jesus steps out and sees the crowd, He feels moved to help them. They are like sheep without a shepherd. So even though He planned to rest, He begins to teach them instead. His care for others comes first.

22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Clean Hands, Clean Heart

In Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23, some Pharisees notice that Jesus’ disciples eat without washing their hands the traditional way. They question why His followers don’t follow the old customs. Jesus tells them that focusing only on outward rules misses the point of real faith.

He explains that what matters most is what comes from the heart. What we say and do shows who we are. Evil actions like lies, greed, and jealousy come from inside a person, not from unwashed hands or food. Jesus teaches that true purity starts within.

23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Ears Opened and Words Set Free

In Mark 7:31-37, people bring a man to Jesus who cannot hear or speak clearly. They ask Jesus to help him. Jesus takes the man away from the crowd, touches his ears and tongue, and says a simple word. Right away, the man can hear and speak.

Jesus asks the people not to tell anyone, but they can’t stay quiet. They are amazed and spread the news. They say Jesus does everything well, even helping the deaf and the mute. His care reaches those who are often left out.

24th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Who Do You Say I Am?

In Mark 8:27-35, Jesus asks His disciples what people are saying about Him. They mention names like John the Baptist and Elijah. Then Jesus asks who they think He is. Peter answers, saying He is the Christ. But Peter doesn’t fully understand what that means yet.

Jesus explains that He will suffer, be rejected, and killed. Peter tries to stop Him, but Jesus tells him he’s thinking the wrong way. Then Jesus teaches that anyone who wants to follow Him must be ready to give up their own way and take up their cross.

2nd Sunday of Lent Year B

A Glimpse of Glory

In Mark 9:2-10, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain. There, something amazing happens—Jesus changes before their eyes. His clothes shine brightly. Then Moses and Elijah appear and talk with Him. The disciples are shocked and don’t know what to say.

A cloud covers them, and a voice says to listen to Jesus. Then, just as suddenly, everything returns to normal. Jesus tells them not to talk about it until after He rises from the dead. They don’t fully understand, but they remember what they saw.

Transfiguration of the Lord Year B

Jesus Shines on the Mountain

In Mark 9:2-10, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a high mountain. There, His appearance changes. His clothes shine brightly. Moses and Elijah appear and talk with Him. The disciples are amazed and scared. Peter offers to build shelters, but he does not understand what is happening.

Then a cloud covers them, and a voice tells them to listen to Jesus. After the voice speaks, only Jesus is left with them. As they come down the mountain, Jesus tells them to keep quiet until He rises from the dead. They do not fully understand, but they listen.

25th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

The Greatest Is the Smallest

In Mark 9:30-37, Jesus tells His disciples that He will be handed over, killed, and rise again after three days. They do not understand but are afraid to ask questions. As they walk, the disciples argue about who is the greatest among them.

When they reach the house, Jesus asks what they were arguing about. They stay quiet. Then He teaches them that the greatest must be the servant of all. He places a child in front of them and says that welcoming a child is like welcoming Him. Greatness comes through humility and care.

26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Stay on the Right Path

In Mark 9:38-43, 45, 47-48, the disciples see someone driving out demons in Jesus’ name and try to stop him. Jesus tells them not to. Anyone who does good in His name is not against them. He reminds them that small acts of kindness done for His sake matter.

Jesus also warns them to avoid sin. He uses strong words to show how serious this is. If something causes a person to sin, they should remove it from their life. It is better to lose something than to let sin take over. Jesus wants His followers to stay focused and live in a way that pleases God.

27th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

God’s Plan and a Child’s Welcome

In Mark 10:2-16, some Pharisees ask Jesus about divorce. He reminds them of God’s plan from the beginning. Marriage is meant to be a lasting union. Jesus explains that what God joins together should not be separated. He also speaks to His disciples about this again in private.

Later, people bring children to Jesus. The disciples try to stop them, but Jesus says to let them come. He tells them that God’s kingdom belongs to those who are like children. Then He blesses the children. Jesus shows that faith should be simple, trusting, and open.

28th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Letting Go to Follow

In Mark 10:17-30, a man asks Jesus what he must do to gain eternal life. He says he has kept the commandments. Jesus tells him he still lacks one thing—he should sell what he has, give to the poor, and follow Him. The man walks away sad because he has many possessions.

Jesus then tells His disciples how hard it is for the rich to enter God’s kingdom. They are surprised, but He explains that nothing is impossible for God. Peter says they have left everything to follow Him. Jesus promises that anyone who gives up things for His sake will receive many blessings, both now and in the life to come.

29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Leading by Serving

In Mark 10:35-45, James and John ask Jesus for special places beside Him in glory. Jesus tells them they do not understand what they are asking. He speaks about the suffering that comes with following Him. The other disciples become upset with James and John.

Jesus then teaches them all an important lesson. He says that greatness does not come from power or high places. Instead, the greatest must be the servant of all. He reminds them that He came not to be served, but to serve and give His life for others.

30th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

A Blind Man Sees with Faith

In Mark 10:46-52, Jesus is leaving Jericho when a blind man named Bartimaeus calls out to Him. Many people tell him to be quiet, but he keeps calling for help. Jesus stops and tells the crowd to bring the man forward.

Jesus asks Bartimaeus what he wants. He says he wants to see. Jesus tells him that his faith has made him well. At once, Bartimaeus can see, and he follows Jesus on the road. His trust and persistence show what it means to believe and follow.

Palm Sunday Year B: Procession of Palms

Welcomed with Branches

In Mark 11:1-10, Jesus and His disciples come near Jerusalem. He tells two of them to get a young donkey from a nearby village. They find it just as He said and bring it to Him. Jesus rides the donkey into the city.

As He enters, people spread cloaks and leafy branches on the road. They shout with joy and welcome Him as the one who comes in God’s name. This moment shows that many see Jesus as a king, even if they don’t yet understand what kind of king He is.

31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

The Most Important Commandments

In Mark 12:28b-34, a scribe asks Jesus which commandment is the greatest. Jesus says the first is to love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. The second is to love your neighbor as yourself. These two are more important than any other rule.

The scribe agrees and says that love is more valuable than burnt offerings or sacrifices. Jesus sees that the man understands and tells him he is not far from the kingdom of God. After that, no one dares to question Jesus further.

32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

True Giving from the Heart

In Mark 12:38-44, Jesus warns the people about the scribes. He says they like attention and special treatment, but they take advantage of others, especially the poor. Their actions do not match their faith.

Then Jesus watches people putting money into the temple treasury. Many rich people give large amounts. But a poor widow puts in two small coins. Jesus tells His disciples that she gave more than anyone else because she gave all she had. Her gift came from trust, not extra wealth.

33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Stay Awake and Be Ready

In Mark 13:24-32, Jesus talks about what will happen at the end of time. He says there will be signs in the sky and on the earth. Then the Son of Man will come with great power, and He will gather His people from everywhere.

Jesus uses a fig tree as a lesson. Just like people know summer is near when the tree blooms, they should watch for signs of these events. He says no one knows the exact day or hour—not even the angels. Only the Father knows. So we must stay ready and alert.

1st Sunday of Advent Year B

Keep Watch and Be Ready

In Mark 13:33-37, Jesus tells His followers to stay alert. He says they do not know when the time will come. He compares it to a man who leaves his house and puts his servants in charge. Each one has a task to do.

The message is clear: stay awake and be ready. The master could return at any time, even in the middle of the night. Jesus warns them not to be caught off guard. His words remind us to live each day with care and attention.

Palm Sunday Year B

From Supper to the Cross

In Mark 14:1–15:47, Jesus eats the Passover meal with His disciples. He tells them that one will betray Him. Later, in the garden, He prays while they fall asleep. Judas arrives with soldiers and hands Jesus over. Jesus is taken to the high priests and then to Pilate.

The crowd calls for His death. Jesus is beaten, mocked, and nailed to a cross. He dies and is placed in a tomb. Along the way, His friends run away, but a few faithful women stay near. This long passage shows the final steps of Jesus’ journey and how He gives His life for others.

Corpus Christi Year B

The First Meal of a New Promise

In Mark 14:12-16, 22-26, Jesus tells His disciples to prepare the Passover meal. They follow His directions and find everything ready. That evening, they gather together for the meal.

During the meal, Jesus takes bread and wine and shares them with His disciples. He tells them the bread is His body and the wine is His blood. This begins something new. After the meal, they sing a hymn and go out to the Mount of Olives. Jesus is preparing them for what is about to happen.

Easter Vigil Mass Year B

The Tomb Is Empty

In Mark 16:1-7, three women go to Jesus’ tomb early in the morning. They bring spices to anoint His body. As they walk, they wonder who will roll the heavy stone away from the entrance.

When they arrive, they see the stone has already been moved. Inside the tomb, they meet a young man in white. He tells them Jesus is not there—He has risen. He asks them to go and tell the disciples that Jesus is going ahead to Galilee. The women are amazed and afraid, but they now carry a message of hope.

Ascension of the Lord Year B

Go and Tell the Good News

In Mark 16:15-20, Jesus tells His followers to go into the world and share the good news with everyone. He says those who believe and are baptized will be saved. He also says that signs will follow those who believe, like healing and protection from harm.

After saying these things, Jesus is taken up to heaven and sits at the right hand of God. The disciples go out and begin to preach everywhere. God works with them and confirms their message through signs. Their mission has begun, and they are not alone.


Selections from the Gospel of Mark are also read at weekday Masses:

Resources

Mark’s Gospel Moves Fast

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz introduces the gospel of Mark by pointing out how fast-paced it is. He says Mark jumps right into the action and doesn’t waste time. The word “immediately” is used often, showing how quickly things happen in Mark 1 and 2.

Fr. Mike explains that Mark’s gospel is likely based on what St. Peter preached. Mark traveled with Peter and later wrote down what he heard. He may have also known Paul and Barnabas, but had a falling out with Paul that later led to reconciliation.

Fr. Mike notes that Mark writes for Christians facing suffering, likely during Nero’s time. Jesus is shown as a strong leader who acts quickly and fights evil. Fr. Mike says Jesus was baptized not because he needed it, but to make the waters holy for us.

He also talks about Jesus healing the paralyzed man in chapter 2. The man was healed because of his friends’ faith. Fr. Mike says this reminds us why we baptize babies—the faith of others can help bring grace to someone who cannot ask for it themselves.

Jesus Shows Who He Really Is

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on Mark chapters 3 and 4. He focuses on how Jesus uses healing and teaching to reveal who he is. Fr. Mike says that Jesus heals on the Sabbath to show he is Lord of the Sabbath and to restore people to life with God.

Fr. Mike highlights the story of the man with the withered hand. He says Jesus looked at the silent crowd with anger because they knew the right answer but stayed quiet. Fr. Mike challenges us to not stay silent when truth needs to be spoken.

He also explains what Jesus means about the sin against the Holy Spirit. It’s not one specific act, but rather refusing to ask for God’s mercy. Any sin can be forgiven if we bring it to Jesus.

Fr. Mike talks about how the gospel builds up to the question, “Who is Jesus?” After calming the storm, the disciples wonder who he is. Fr. Mike says the gospel of Mark helps us discover the answer: Jesus is truly the Son of God.

Jesus Fights for Us and Feeds Us

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on Mark chapters 5 and 6. He talks about how Jesus is constantly doing exorcisms. Fr. Mike says this shows that Jesus came to fight evil and take back the world for God’s kingdom.

Fr. Mike explains that one person matters more to Jesus than anything else. When Jesus heals the man with many demons, he shows that even 2,000 pigs are not worth more than one soul. This reminds us how much God values each of us.

He also shares how the apostles were sent out with power over unclean spirits. Fr. Mike says this continues today through baptism. When we are baptized, we are taken out of Satan’s kingdom and brought into Jesus’s care.

Fr. Mike ends by talking about the feeding of the 5,000. Jesus tells the apostles to feed the people, even when they feel like they don’t have enough. Fr. Mike says we are called to do the same: give what we have to Jesus, let him bless it, and share it with others.

Faith, Humility, and the Cost of Discipleship

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on Mark chapters 7 and 8. He explains how Jesus challenges the Pharisees for following human traditions instead of God’s commands. Fr. Mike warns against doing the right things outwardly while ignoring what God really wants in our hearts.

He spends time on the story of the Syrophoenician woman. Fr. Mike says her humility and trust in Jesus show us how to approach God—with no entitlement, just faith. She represents all of us who come to Jesus without earning his mercy but still asking for it.

Fr. Mike also reflects on Jesus healing a deaf man and a blind man by touch. He says this shows how God uses physical things to share his grace. This reminds him of how God works through the sacraments to heal and feed us.

At the end of Mark 8, Fr. Mike highlights Peter’s confession and Jesus’ clear teaching that following him means taking up our cross. He says this is a strong call for us today. We must choose between fitting in with the world or staying faithful to Jesus.

Jesus Teaches Hard Truths

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on Mark chapters 9 and 10. He reminds us that the gospel of Mark moves fast. One story flows right into another. Mark shows Jesus as active, direct, and full of power.

Fr. Mike highlights the Transfiguration. He explains that Jesus stands with Moses and Elijah to show he is greater than the law and the prophets. God the Father speaks and says, “This is my beloved Son. Listen to him.” Fr. Mike says this shows Jesus is not just a teacher—he is the one we must follow.

He also talks about how Jesus warns about sin and hell. Fr. Mike says Jesus is serious when he tells us to cut off anything that leads us to sin. He explains that Jesus uses strong words because he loves us and wants us to choose life with him.

Fr. Mike reflects on Jesus’ teaching about marriage, wealth, and following him. He says Jesus calls us to give everything, just like he asked the rich man. These are hard teachings, but Fr. Mike reminds us that Jesus helps us through them. He calls us higher, but he never gives up on us.

Jesus Looks for Fruit

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares how Mark chapters 11 and 12 show a shift. Jesus enters Jerusalem and stays there through his passion and resurrection. His actions and words become stronger. The tension is growing.

Fr. Mike says the fig tree is a symbol. Jesus curses it because it has no fruit. This is a message for God’s people. They are supposed to show good fruit in their lives.

He explains that the parable of the vineyard shows the same idea. God wants his people to return good fruit from what he has given them. Jesus warns that being chosen means we also must bear fruit.

Fr. Mike ends by talking about the widow who gave her last coins. Her gift was small, but it meant everything. Jesus praises her because she gave her whole heart to God.

Jesus Heads Toward the Cross

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares how the gospel of Mark moves fast until chapter 14. Mark 14 is the longest chapter. Fr. Mike says Mark slows down here because this is the most important part—Jesus giving everything for us.

Fr. Mike talks about how Mark 13 includes a warning. Jesus tells his followers they will face hard times. Fr. Mike says this is still true today. Christians in many places are hated or divided from their families for following Jesus.

He explains that Jesus told early Christians to flee when they saw the signs. Fr. Mike says this happened in 70 AD when the Romans destroyed the temple. Christians escaped because they remembered Jesus’ words in Mark 13.

Fr. Mike also points to the Last Supper in Mark 14. Jesus gives his Body and Blood and thinks of us even in his last hours. Fr. Mike says Jesus prays with honesty and trust, and we are called to do the same.

The Cross and the Empty Tomb

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about Mark chapters 15 and 16. He says these chapters feel very serious. The story slows down because this is the part where Jesus suffers and dies. It is the most important moment in the gospel of Mark.

Fr. Mike explains why we keep a crucifix in our churches. It shows the cost of sin and the depth of Jesus’ love. It’s not just pain that saves us, but the love Jesus showed on the cross. Fr. Mike reminds us that it was love, not nails, that kept Jesus there.

He also talks about Jesus saying, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Fr. Mike explains this comes from Psalm 22. Jesus is not giving up. He is pointing to a prayer that begins in pain but ends in hope and praise.

Fr. Mike says the gospel of Mark ends with Jesus rising from the dead. The story does not stop at the cross. Jesus rose for us, and we now tell others what he has done. Fr. Mike thanks God for this and says we should receive his love and keep sharing it.

About St. Mark

Saint Mark is one of the four evangelists who authored the Gospels of the New Testament. He is believed to be the disciple of Saint Peter and the founder of the Church of Alexandria in Egypt. His Gospel is the shortest of the four, but it is considered one of the most vivid and descriptive accounts of Jesus’ life, teachings, and miracles. Read more about St. Mark.

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The Bible

If you want to learn more about the Bible, check out this helpful guide. It gives a clear overview of both the Old and New Testaments. You will find easy explanations of the books and why they matter.

This resource also suggests ways to read the Bible on your own or with others. It can help you feel more confident in understanding the stories and teachings. Take some time to explore it and let it guide your journey with Scripture.

Questions and Answers about the Gospel of Mark

Who wrote the Gospel of Mark?

The Gospel was written by John Mark, a follower of Peter. He was not one of the twelve apostles, but he learned about Jesus from those who were close to Him.

When was the Gospel of Mark written?

Most people believe it was written around 70 AD, during a time when Christians were facing hard times and persecution.

Why is the Gospel of Mark so short?

Mark’s style is quick and to the point. He focuses on what Jesus did, not long speeches or stories. He wants readers to act right away.

What is special about the Gospel of Mark?

It shows Jesus as a servant who suffers for others. It reminds us that following Jesus means serving and sometimes facing hard things.

How does Mark’s Gospel help Catholics today?

It helps us see that Jesus understands our struggles. It also reminds us to live our faith through action.

Quick Steps with Jesus

The Gospel of Mark is the shortest of the four Gospels. It tells the story of Jesus in a fast and simple way. It begins with Jesus’ baptism and ends with the empty tomb. There are no stories about His birth or childhood. Everything moves quickly. Mark often uses the word “immediately” to show the fast pace.

Mark focuses on what Jesus did. We see Jesus healing people, feeding crowds, and teaching in simple ways. He also shows us that Jesus suffered and died. This was hard for His followers to understand, but it helps us see that Jesus knows what pain feels like.

This Gospel also shows that Jesus wants people to follow Him right away. Mark’s message is clear. There is no time to wait. Jesus came to serve, and we are called to do the same. Even when it is hard, we are not alone. Jesus walks with us.

Your Turn

Take a little time to read the Gospel of Mark. It won’t take long. Its simple words and quick pace make it easy to follow. You’ll see Jesus in action and learn what it means to live like Him.

After reading, come back and share what stood out to you. Was there a part that made you stop and think? Leave a comment and let others know how the Gospel spoke to you.

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