Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Mark 3, 1-6
Jesus entered the synagogue.
There was a man there who had a withered hand.
They watched Jesus closely
to see if he would cure him on the sabbath
so that they might accuse him.
He said to the man with the withered hand,
“Come up here before us.”
Then he said to the Pharisees,
“Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil,
to save life rather than to destroy it?”
But they remained silent.
Looking around at them with anger
and grieved at their hardness of heart,
Jesus said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.”
He stretched it out and his hand was restored.
The Pharisees went out and immediately took counsel
with the Herodians against him to put him to death.
Giving Life
1. Withered hand. This man endured a great deal of suffering. You may recognize some of his struggles in your own life: (a) Feeling worthless: Unable to use his hand, he had to rely on others, which made him feel like a “burden.” Sometimes, we don’t think we’re capable of doing things ourselves and lose our sense of purpose, stopping ourselves from creating or being productive. (b) Feeling dependent: Being constantly reliant on the kindness of others. Often, we only think we are dependent because we’ve convinced ourselves it’s true. But you are capable of independence—just consider how many people with significant challenges have accomplished extraordinary things. (c) Pity: Believing that those who help you do so only out of pity. This thought can be painful and discouraging, but it’s usually just in your mind. Don’t let these three feelings settle into your heart, soul, or life. Otherwise, your whole life could become paralyzed, not just a hand.
2. A look of indignation. This is the look Jesus gives to “devout” religious people who act religious but lack compassion. All of us who are committed to the Church—priests, religious, and members of various groups—must remember our humanity! Our mission is to guide people to Jesus. Treat others with kindness. Don’t use the Church for personal power or as a means to become an “influencer.” Don’t take advantage of the Church or turn your community into a place for gossip and drama. We are called to heal and save, not to hurt or condemn. I hope it’s not too late for us to change, so that Jesus doesn’t look at us the way he looked at those men.
3. Stretch out your hand. Today, reach out. There are many people who need your help, and you have the ability to make a real difference. Take a break from watching shows and spend time with someone who feels lonely. Offer a helping hand—there’s always someone who needs you, even if it’s just accompanying them to pay their bills. Even a small act of kindness can make a big impact. By simply offering help, you can achieve wonderful things.
Don’t forget that something good is on the way!
God bless you and be with you in the name of the Father, of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
