7th Week in Ordinary Time
In my name . . . (Mark 9:39)
John and the other disciples were missing the point. Alarmed that a stranger was using Jesus’ name to cast out demons, they tried to stop him. Why wasn’t their first reaction gratitude? Or joy? Or awe and wonder? Jesus’ power is so great that even someone who didn’t belong to their band of followers could perform a mighty deed just by calling on his name!
Sometimes we miss the point as well—but in a slightly different way. We miss out on the grace available to us when we pray in the name of Jesus. God has given Jesus authority over all of heaven and earth, and Jesus promised that in the authority of his name all of his followers can work wonders (Matthew 28:18; Mark 16:17-18). He even promised, “Whatever you ask the Father in my name he will give you” (John 16:23).
Just like the man in today’s Gospel, you can pray in the name of Jesus when you sense the presence of evil. Remember, the evil one loves to harass those who belong to Christ. As the father of lies, he can cause us to feel guilt and shame when we have already been forgiven. As the accuser, he is often behind our self-condemning thoughts. And as the enemy of everyone, he loves to cause division in relationships. So don’t underestimate his desire to wreak havoc.
When the seventy-two returned from their missionary journey, they told Jesus, “Even the demons are subject to us because of your name” (Luke 10:17). Evil quakes at the name of Jesus. Believe that demons flee at the mention of Jesus’ name, even when you’re the one speaking it!
So when you sense the evil one at work, go ahead and pray. You don’t need a lot of words. Just say, “Jesus, I come against this darkness in your name.”
Jesus’ name is truly “the name that is above every name” (Philippians 2:9). His authority to dispel evil and darkness is not just reserved for him alone. You have been baptized into his name, and that means you can call on that name. He has placed his name in your heart, so call on it!
“Jesus, may your name be ever on my heart and lips.”
Sirach 4:11-19
Psalm 119:165, 168, 171-172, 174-175
