(How does
the today’s Gospel call me to engage the lockdown? Allow me to share with you my
humble reflection.)
“Now
Simon’s mother-in-law was in bed with a fever… Jesus came and took her by
the hand and lifted her up. Then the fever left her, and she began to serve
them.” (John 15:11)
The first
miracle that Mark recounts in his Gospel is an exorcism. The physical healing
of Simon's mother-in-law is the second. Jesus frees people from illnesses of both
the soul and the body. He thus manifests his dominion over the powers of evil
that prevent human beings from being fully alive. In response to his healing,
Simon's mother-in-law places herself at the service of others. Having recovered
her health, she imitates Jesus by loving her neighbor.
The
pandemic is making us all sick to varying degrees. I may not have caught the
virus, but I am suffering the consequences of its spread in our world:
impoverished relationships, difficulties at work, anxiety and isolation lead to
discouragement, even to depression. Healthcare workers - blessed are they - are
dedicated to freeing us from physical illness, but who will free me from the
sickness of soul that this lockdown causes?
Abba,
Father, I also need healing. Open my heart to your Spirit, the "hand"
of Jesus reaching out to touch me and set me free. Restore peace and confidence
in me so that, as did Simon's mother-in-law, I will happily serve others.
Amen.
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