Mark 1:1-3
The beginning of the good news about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God, as it is written in Isaiah the prophet:
“I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way”[Malachi 3:1]—
“a voice of one calling in the wilderness,
‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.’”[Isaiah 40:3]
The open verses of Mark's Gospel is largely an Old Testament quote. Mark does not quote the Old Testament often, so when he does, we should take notice.
“As it is written” is a phrase that prepares us for the quotation. This is a quote, not about Jesus, but about John the Baptist.
Why does Mark do this? He is announcing the Gospel - the Good News - and yes, this is new, but it has also been part of God’s plan all along. Sometimes God moves quickly. Other times, God requires us to be patient. But his timing is always right.
In using the word gospel, Mark is making a point. The Good News is a historical event. The Good News is not an abstract idea. It is not a made-up story. It happened.
It happened with Jesus, the Christ, the Messiah, the Anointed One being born in flesh and blood. The Good News inextricably connects God to humanity—to us. Jesus Christ is Good News.
The introduction to Mark's Gospel is concise. It is free of window dressing. In its raw, matter-of-fact statement, Mark communicates that the Good News is basic and uncomplicated.
But at the same time, this Good News is not an out-of-the-blue sort of thing. No, the Good News is connected to God’s Plan from the ages.
Mark’s introduction is not meant to teach or inform. He leaves us wondering what does this mean: what is this unadorned, eternal, basic plan of God, which took place on earth - connecting God to humankind, to us.
The answer: This Good News is meant to call and challenge us. The Gospel calls to us to turn and follow. The Gospel challenges us to live for God.
God invites us and patiently waits for our response.
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