Gospel Reflections 800x800 gold outline

Today's Gospel: Mark 6, 53-56

Today’s Gospel reminds us of an essential part of Jesus’ mission on earth, which was to heal. I am amazed by the people of the Gospel. Of course, he was recognized on sight! He worked miracles. He healed the sick and broken! They recognized Jesus as the Divine Healer.

Today, this part of Jesus’ mission is the same. He still heals the sick and broken. When healing the body, Jesus also heals the soul. Modern medicine, a gift from God, is wonderful, but that does not heal the soul. Only Jesus, the Divine Physician can heal the wounds of our souls. Through the gifts of Mass and the Sacrament of Reconciliation, we ask God for healing.

In the Penitential Rite of the Mass (version B) the priest intones, “Lord, you were sent to heal the contrite.” We respond, “Lord, have mercy.”

In version C of the Penitential Rite, the priest intones: “You were sent to heal the sick,” and we respond “Lord, have mercy.”

If we approach the Sacrament of Reconciliation with contrite and sincere hearts, we give Jesus the room to work in our souls. After confessing our sins with humility, Jesus, through His priest tells us: “I absolve you from your sins, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Go in peace. Your sins are forgiven.” The miracle of healing begins.

God is stronger and more powerful than sin. He pours out His Mercy on us. Through His Mercy and forgiveness, He heals the soul. Never be afraid. He walks with you always.

Ponder:

When was the last time you sought healing through the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the Mass?

Pray:

Lord, I am broken. Please heal me.

 

Copyright 2016 Mallory Hoffman

I am a retired special education teacher, and the Catholic mom of two amazing adult children. I also make lampwork glass beads and polymer clay glass beads. My blogs are: For the Love of Beads, His Unending Love, and Prayerfully Yours.