March 24

by David Lins  |  03/24/2020  |  (Being) Catholic Matters

Readings for the Day: EZ 47:1-9, 12, Psalm 46:2-3, 5-6, 8-9 Jn 5:1-16

In today’s Gospel, Jesus heals a man who had been ill for 38 years. On the miracle scale, this might not equal Lazarus, but it’s pretty darn impressive. So what are some of the last words Jesus says to the man? “Look, you are well; do not sin anymore.”

Why does Jesus seem to be more focused on the spiritual than the physical? He heals a man’s infirmities and tells him to work on himself spiritually? We all know the answer. Physical illness can only hurt us for a limited time. Spiritual illness can impact eternity.

Years ago, a surgeon friend asked how I cope with such a “pressure-packed job.” I laughed at him. He said he was serious. As he saw it, he was only saving the temporary. My job was focused on the eternal. I do not share this story to feed my own ego (as it actually is quite frightening if I forget that Jesus can use anyone – regardless of qualification). I share this because I believe my friend had clarity of priority.

“What does it profit a man to gain the world and lose his soul?”

How many times have we considered our proximity to others? We should be considering our proximity to God just as often. I am not downplaying the importance of life. I am merely reminding us all to remain focused on eternal life.

One day, this virus will recede and the Lord will say, “Look, you are well; do not sin anymore.”

David is the Director of Faith Formation at Our Lady of Joy.

If you have comments or questions, send your emails to dlins@oloj.org.

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