The Holy Gospel according to Mark (6:53-56)
After making the crossing to the other side of the sea,
Jesus and his disciples came to land at Gennesaret
and tied up there.
As they were leaving the boat, people immediately recognized him.
They scurried about the surrounding country
and began to bring in the sick on mats
to wherever they heard he was.
Whatever villages or towns or countryside he entered,
they laid the sick in the marketplaces
and begged him that they might touch only the tassel on his cloak;
and as many as touched it were healed.
Reflection: We all have heroes throughout our life. The dictionary defines a hero as someone who is admired or idealized for courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities. They are people that we look up to or respect for whatever it is that they have done that we (I) think is cool. Now, of course, you have your heroes like mom or dad, or uncle, or your deacon but let’s think a step beyond that.
When I was 8 or so, I won a contest through the archdiocese (I don’t remember what) and I was going to receive a award. But I didn’t care about the award, all I cared about was that I was going to meet the Dodger 2nd baseman, Jimmy Lefebvre (1967-1972) because he was giving out the reward. I remember it was my mom that took me (of course) because she’s a Dodger fan. And when I met him (WOW!), he was such a great guy. He was warm, comforting, easy to talk to and best of all, he was Catholic. Well, at that very moment, I became a huge fan of Jimmy. Now, fast forward my life about 10 more years. I used to coach high school baseball. My head coach was very good friends with the head coach of one of our competing schools and we were playing against them that day. After the game we go and chat with this head coach, his name is Benny Lefebvre, Jimmy’s father. In speaking with Benny, I could see where Jimmy got his kindness and wit from. By the way, Benny was a great coach too.
The passage urges believers to bring their concerns to Jesus, trusting in His presence and healing power. Whether physical, mental, or spiritual, healing is available for all who seek Him. We are encouraged to follow Jesus closely, assist those in need, and remember that He is always near, ready to help.
We come to prayer often with our needs. But we can come to prayer also to know what we might do for Jesus. What is it that he is asking of us. Is he asking us to go and heal someone in need? Discipleship brings us into both friendship and partnership. We are grateful for both these callings, knowing that every time we meet the Lord, we are healed and strengthened.
Action of the Day: Is there something I am carrying that may not be obvious to anyone else? Do I seek assistance from God or someone else? What is it that God is asking us to do today?
Audio Reflection
