October 9
Twenty-eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time
“The Lord has revealed to the nations his saving power.”
Reflection
The Scripture readings this weekend speak of healing, specifically healing from the disease of leprosy. Recall that the disease of leprosy constituted a number of skin diseases of the time. Fear of the disease was common, including within one’s own family and community, therefore relegating those with leprosy literally to the outskirts of society, often left alone to suffer with no one to offer comfort or hope.
Elisha the prophet and Jesus both enter into the misery and suffering of the afflicted people and appear to bring about healing though their own power, however, we realize that it is in fact the healing power of God that is active through these men that actually brings forth healing and opens the sufferer to new life! It is important for us to realize that Elisha and Jesus were the conduit of healing, but often these healings took place outside of their own communities. This is vital to understand, because God intends believers to share his healing power with all people, not just with those in their own family, social circle or community. Jesus teaches us to cross all of the societally imposed boundaries in order to bring the word of God and its healing benefits to all!
While Elisha and Jesus are conduits for the healing of the ill, we must realize that when people become open to the word of God miracles are indeed possible and healing can occur.
Peace,
Fr. John
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