The Catholic Calendar for Friday, January 13, 2006
The First Week in Ordinary Time
St. Hilary, bishop and doctor of the Church

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
1 Samuel 8:4-7, 10-22
Psalm 89:16-19
Mark 2:1-12

A reflection on today's Scripture. . . .

"Child, your sins are forgiven." (Mark 2:5)

Today's Gospel deals with several aspects of our relationship with God. On the human side we're reminded of the necessity of faith, a firm belief in both the goodness and power of our God as well as the fact that He can and will do whatever is best for us in any situation we bring to Him. The paralytic and his companions' faith was so strong that they risked employing an extreme measure to bring the crippled man to Christ for healing. They chose to honor the worth of a human life, his being made whole, over the temporary and reparable damage to the roof of the house.

On our God's side we learn that He honors the needs and desires of the faithful. We see also that the healing He brings to us in the Person of Christ is not only physical; He restores us to the fullness of our humanity which is also spiritual in nature. Often a sick human spirit is at the root of physical illness. In this particular person's case, it was necessary for him to first hear of God's forgiveness and unconditional love in order to be freed of his paralyzing guilt.

We learn too that human "authorities" can make serious errors if they lack divine wisdom. The Scribes accused Jesus of blasphemy for forgiving the man's sin, that which only God can do; they were blind to His identity, despite the many miracles and healings He had performed. Jesus did not dispute their accusation with words but simply continued demonstrating the limitless power of God to do good, His absolute authority over every aspect of human existence. Our part is to exercise sincerely believing and receptive hearts.

Father God, we thank You for Your healing love. Help us to totally abandon ourselves to Your Son Whom You sent to restore us to holiness in heart, mind and spirit. Amen.

- Marie Bocko, OCDS
(mlbocko at earthlink dot net)

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