A Reflection by:
FR JOHNY PANAMTHANAM, SSP,
SOCIETY OF ST PAUL.
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Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
The readings of today’s Mass focus on our physical health, communal harmony among people, and compassion towards others.
The Book of Leviticus gives us a detailed account of the laws regarding leprosy which affected people physically and isolated them from their community due to the fear of contagion. The priestly instructions emphasize the importance of maintaining physical health for the well-being of the community. Since our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), caring for our physical health is a sacred responsibility on our part.
St. Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, echoes this sentiment. He urges the Corinthians, and us today, to do everything, whether eating or drinking, for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). He emphasizes the interconnectedness of our actions with our spiritual lives. True holiness extends beyond religious rituals and contains every aspect of our daily life. We are called to make choices that reflect the love of God and contribute to the growth of our community.
In the Gospel of Mark, we witness the healing of a leper by Jesus. The leper, outcast and marginalized, approaches Jesus with humility and faith, saying, "If you will, you can make me clean." Jesus, moved with compassion, not only heals the leper but also touches him, breaking the cultural and religious taboos of the time. This act of healing and restoration of the leper to the community reveal Jesus's divine authority over physical ailments and his willingness to accept the outcast.
The practical application of these readings in our lives today must be clear to us. First of all, we are called to prioritize our physical health as an expression of gratitude for the gift of life and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. This involves making wise choices in our diet, exercise, and overall lifestyle, which will help us to recognize that our bodies are instruments through which we can glorify God.
Secondly, the call to holiness extends to our life as a community. The Apostle Paul encourages us to imitate him as he imitates Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1). This imitation involves fostering unity within the Body of Christ. We are called to love one another, bear each other's burdens (Galatians 6:2), and maintain the bonds of peace (Ephesians 4:3). Our unity as a community reflects the divine love that binds the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Lastly, the Gospel challenges us to be compassionate towards the marginalized and the suffering. As followers of Christ, we are called to extend a healing touch, whether through physical acts of mercy or offering a listening ear to those in need.
In conclusion, the readings today remind us that holiness is not confined to religious rituals but it should permeate every aspect of our lives. By prioritizing physical health, fostering unity in our communities, and engaging in compassionate works, we embody the love and compassion of Christ. Let us embrace this call to holiness with joy, knowing that in doing so, we participate in God's transforming work in the world. May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ empower us to live holy and purposeful lives, which will bring glory to His name. Amen.
12 сен 2024
