Mk 1:40–45
A leper came to Jesus and begged him,
If you want to, you can make me clean.
Moved with pity, Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him, saying,
I do want to; be clean.
The leprosy left the man at once and he was made clean. As Jesus sent the man away, he sternly warned him,
Don’t tell anyone about this, but go and show yourself to the priest, and for the cleansing bring the offering ordered by Moses; in this way you will give to them your testimony.
However, as soon as the man went out, he began spreading the news everywhere, so that Jesus could no longer openly enter any town. But even though he stayed in the rural areas, people came to him from everywhere.
REFLECTION
READ: In the first reading, the Jews considered the lepers as unclean and separated them from the mainstream society. While in the gospel reading, it was shown to us that Jesus liberated them from their leprosy and in effect freed them from their status as outcasts. Jesus is teaching us that nobody is to be sent out or excluded from the love of God. The second reading conveys to seek for the glory of God in whatever we do, to seek what is good for our brothers and sisters.
REFLECT: How do I consider people not of my own religion, beliefs or customs? How do I relate with people who have AIDS or other contagious diseases? Do I also seek what is good for the least of my brothers and sisters?
PRAY: Almighty everliving God, you are the source of our life. Teach us how to be caring not only of ourselves and our own interests but also be able to take care and be of help to what others need, for the good of my family, country and the world. Amen.
ACTION: Take time to visit your sick neighbors, assist the needs of the prisoners or help the victims of natural and man-made calamities.
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