Compassion

My dear friends in Christ,

The story of the healing of Simon’s mother-in-law follows the story of the exorcism in the synagogue of the man with the unclean spirit. Other than calling the first four disciples, this was Jesus’ first act of ministry. This exorcism takes place on the Sabbath, but the opposition to Jesus has not yet developed, and there is no reaction to His performing an exorcism on the Sabbath. Many aspects of the life of Jesus come together in this reading. After the morning drama in the synagogue, Jesus went to the home of Simon and Andrew. The restrictions of Sabbath observance meant that the day should remain quiet. But Simon’s mother-in-law was ill and Jesus was moved to cure her. He always put compassion before the law. The Sabbath ended at sundown and this allowed “the whole city” to come with their sick and possessed. We don’t know how many hours Jesus spent healing. What we do know is that when He was finished, He slipped out of the house to find a deserted place to pray. Why? Should we be surprised? A search party was sent to look for Jesus. Should He return to Capernaum or move on to the next town in service of others?

Thursday, February 11, 2021 is the optional Memorial of Our Lady of Lourdes. It was also designated by St. Pope John Paul II as World Day of The Sick, “a special time of prayers and sharing.” We continue to pray for all those affected by COVID-19.

May God bless you all,

Father John