SOCL, 5B24
- Admin
- Feb 2, 2024
- 2 min read
Sunday February 04, 2024
Let us go on to the neighbouring towns, so that I may proclaim the message there also
See
Which of us is not in need of some kind of healing? The healing touch of Jesus reaches out to all in need: the physically ill, the mentally disturbed, the addicts, the bereaved, the lonely, the distraught, the stressed, the sinners. He desires our well-being, that we might be fully alive and experience life in abundance.
Listen
Psalm 147, Praise the Lord, Who Heals the Brokenhearted
Reflect
(Mark 1:29-39)
-The first story (vv. 29-31) is one of healing. You might reflect on times when you were sick in body, mind or spirit and someone was a ‘Jesus person’ to you, someone who ‘took you by the hand and lifted you up’. Remember them with gratitude. Have there been times also when you did this for others?
-The second story (vv. 32-34) adds another dimension. People are freed from demons. Have you had the experience of being freed from demons that imprisoned you: fear, anxiety, guilt, low self-esteem, addictions, bitterness, etc.? What was it like for you to get that freedom? Who were the ‘Jesus people’ who helped to free you?
-The third story (vv. 35-39) has a number of different elements we can consider: a) Jesus goes off to a desert place to pray. After a hectic day he felt the need for quiet to ground himself once more. In the busyness of life how do you keep in touch with what is going on inside yourself ? How do you keep in touch with God? Where do you find your ‘deserted place’? What difference does it make for you when you do succeed in taking time out? b) Jesus shows himself as a person seeking to break new ground. The disciples want him to continue ministry where he is. He wants to move on. What has been your experience of breaking new ground, moving beyond your comfort zone, or trying something you had not tried before? When has this had a lifegiving effect for you?
Pray
Out of your power and compassion, O God, you sent your Son into our afflicted world to proclaim the day of salvation. Heal the broken-hearted; bind up our wounds, bring us health of body and spirit and raise to us to new life in your service. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God for ever and ever. Amen
Act
-Cultivate Compassion: Make a habit of showing compassion and empathy to those facing challenges, such as the physically ill, mentally disturbed, bereaved, or stressed. A listening ear can be a powerful form of healing.
-Prioritize Mental Well-being: Acknowledge the importance of mental and emotional health. Incorporate practices like mindfulness and meditation to manage stress, encourage open conversations about mental health, and support those facing challenges.
-Practice Selfless Service: Actively seek opportunities to help others in need through volunteering or offering assistance to those who are lonely or distraught. Acts of kindness not only benefit others but also contribute to your own sense of purpose and fulfillment.
References
-United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. (2024n, February 4). Fifth Sunday in ordinary time. USCCB. https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/020424.cfm
-Sunday readings. (n.d.-s). Hearers of the Word. https://www.tarsus.ie/SundayReadings/
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