Ord.Wk 13th: Thursday 4th July, 2024 July 4, 2024
Reflection on the WORD
Jesus’ Ministry – Challenges: In today’s Gospel, Jesus cured and forgave the paralytic’s sins. However, many “condemned” Him for blasphemy; others were filled with awe and believed in Him. Ponder on: When God performs ‘miracles in our lives, some of us would believe, while others would remain skeptical. Trust in God’s Merciful and Compassionate Love for us.
Matthew 9:1-8
Jesus got in the boat, crossed the water and came to his home town. And suddenly some people brought him a paralytic stretched out on a bed. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralytic, ‘Take comfort, my child, your sins are forgiven.’ And now some scribes said to themselves, ‘This man is being blasphemous.’
Knowing what was in their minds Jesus said, ‘Why do you have such wicked thoughts in your hearts? Now, which of these is easier: to say, “Your sins are forgiven,” or to say, “Get up and walk”? But to prove to you that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins,’ -- then he said to the paralytic-‘get up, pick up your bed and go off home.’ And the man got up and went home.
A feeling of awe came over the crowd when they saw this, and they praised God for having given such authority to human beings.
Today's Pointers on God's Word
As you read the passage what words, phases or meanings caught your attention?
- In today’s Gospel, Jesus showed His redeeming love and mercy to the paralytic by not only healing his physical ailment but also his spiritual need as well.
- Sin and an unforgiving nature prevent the healing power of God’s love from permeating into our hearts. Much of our pains and afflictions can only be healed by Jesus’ Mercy and forgiving love.
- Ask Jesus to heal and restore our bodies, souls and minds so that we can live and love more fully in His ways.