< <  

Sunday, February 12, 2006

  > >

6th Sunday Ordinary Time


Leviticus 13:1-2, 44-46
1 Corinthians 10:31—11:1
Psalm 32
Mark 1:40-45

View Readings
Similar Reflections

scabs and pus

"The Lord said to Moses and Aaron, 'If someone has on his skin a scab or pustule or blotch which appears to be the sore of leprosy, he shall be brought to Aaron, the priest." —Leviticus 13:1-2

Do you have a spiritual scab, pustule, or blotch? Do you need inner healing? A scab is a past hurt beginning to heal but still a touchy subject. You feel like picking at it or at a certain person and opening the wound once again. Don't touch the scab. Don't reverse the healing process.

A pustule is an effect of spiritual infection. You may be infected with unforgiveness, resentment, bitterness, or anger. The pus from these wounds may be reaching a head. How many times have we innocently started to talk to others when suddenly they burst forth in a fit of rage, resentment, and bitterness? Their pustule broke.

A blotch is like an allergic reaction. Did you ever bring up a subject to which others were allergic? Suddenly there's a tension in the room and a changed tone of voice. The conversation turns ugly.

These scabs, pustules, and blotches need healing. "Moved with pity, Jesus stretched out His hand, touched him, and said: 'I do will it. Be cured.' The leprosy left him then and there, and he was cured" (Mk 1:41-42).

Prayer:  "Heal me, Lord, that I may be healed; save me, that I may be saved, for it is You Whom I praise" (Jer 17:14).

Promise:  "Whether you eat or drink — whatever you do — you should do all for the glory of God." —1 Cor 10:31

Praise:  Praise Jesus, Who still carries the nail wounds as a sign of His great love for us.

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Daniel E. Pilarczyk, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, August 16, 2005

The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.