Greetings on this the Memorial of Saint Anthony, Abbot
Readings: Hebrews 4:1-5, 11; Psalm 78:3 & 4bc, 6c-7, 8; Mark 2:1-12
The Healing of a Paralytic.
In our gospel portion today we have a marvelous story of friends helping their friend be presented to Jesus for healing. Down through the hatch on the top of the roof they lowered him, a paralytic. It took four men of good strength. It was audacious and merciful action. A beautiful example of what we are given to do, that is, bring people to Jesus.
Child, your sins are forgiven.
“Who but God alone can forgive sins?” Jesus immediately knew in his mind what they were thinking to themselves, so he said, “Why are you thinking such things in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise, pick up your mat and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority to forgive sins on earth” –he said to the paralytic, “I say to you, rise, pick up your mat, and go home.” He rose, picked up his mat at once, and went away in the sight of everyone.
Jesus puts the higher value on the forgiveness of sins. The healing of his body was both wonderful in its own right and the sign of Jesus has the power to forgive and heal. A power he gives us as well.
Our psalmist says it well: Do not forget the works of the Lord!
There are also many other things that Jesus did, but if these were to be described individually, I do not think the whole world would contain the books that would be written (Jn 21:25).
Power of Forgiveness
And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained (Jn 20:23).
Our Father – the Power to Forgive
In the prayer Jesus taught us we have one promise we make and receive the power to do it. and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors (Mt 6:12).
Conclusion
This week has been a week of the Ordinary blessings of the Lord. How amazing it has been! May we make ordinary: forgiveness. May we make ordinary: healing. It is the Ordinary way of the Lord.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/011725.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry