Daily Gospel Reflection
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July 4, 2024
After entering a boat, Jesus made the crossing, and came into his own town.
And there people brought to him a paralytic lying on a stretcher.
When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic,
“Courage, child, your sins are forgiven.”
At that, some of the scribes said to themselves,
“This man is blaspheming.”
Jesus knew what they were thinking, and said,
“Why do you harbor evil thoughts?
Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’
or to say, ‘Rise and walk’?
But that you may know that the Son of Man
has authority on earth to forgive sins”–
he then said to the paralytic,
“Rise, pick up your stretcher, and go home.”
He rose and went home.
When the crowds saw this they were struck with awe
and glorified God who had given such authority to men.
Today, we’re reminded not only of the power of Christ to forgive and heal but also of the profound impact of faith and communal support. This story deeply resonates with my journey of living in California, where our friends, driven by deep faith, fervently prayed for and supported my late husband, Mark, during his battle with cancer. Their unwavering belief in God’s healing illuminated our path with hope, showcasing the strength of faith and the sacrificial love that a united community embodies, echoing the gospel’s call to bear one another’s burdens.
This narrative of support transcends individual communities and teaches us that through shared belief and prayer, we can confront life’s most significant challenges, buoyed by the love and grace that flow from a community united in faith.
Now, in Indiana, I have remarried and am embracing new beginnings. I’ve been inspired by witnessing the Notre Dame community act as the hands and feet of Jesus. This vibrant collective mirrors the support Mark and I received, embodying the essence of mutual aid and encouragement in times of need. Observing their selfless acts of kindness and support renews my faith, reminding me of the power of a community to uplift and carry one another toward healing and grace.
Inspired by the gospel, this shared journey in faith reassures us that we are never alone. Surrounded by a community that reflects Christ’s love, our collective faith becomes a beacon of hope and strength for all, demonstrating the incredible power of support and love in our lives. The encouragement from this community underscores the profound impact of being united in faith, turning our shared journey into a vibrant testament to the Gospel’s enduring message of love and support.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, you know that at times we can feel paralyzed by our own evil thoughts or from the fear, anxiety, or shame that comes from our own sinfulness. Help us, Jesus, to rise and walk away from the sins that paralyze us. Give us the strength and courage to walk away from any evil thought or habit that we harbor this day. Help us know that you have given authority to forgive sins because you desire our healing even more than we desire it ourselves. May we always reverence you with awe and admiration for all you have done for us. Amen.