The Lord heals the leper

1 Sam. 4:1-11, Mk 1:40-45. In today's first reading, the people seem to know what they want from a king: someone to be in charge, to fight their battles for them, to make them like other nations, like a child begs for the thing the peers have. The request that a king should rule and judge them seems odd at first because no one asks to be judged and told what to do by someone else. A king would take on the burden of leadership, including the hard decisions and blame when things did not turn out well. In today's Gospel, we have an understanding of a king; the true king heals and forgives rather than leading people into battle. Yet, there is no doubt that the king rules.

Jesus makes it clear that He has the ultimate authority needed to heal and forgive sins as He sees fit. An important task for religious leaders is helping to keep religion pure. Like the leper in the Gospel, we must be open to healing and to God’s invisible presence. The externals of religion, even long-held dogmas and the most sacred objects, are meant to facilitate our communion with the Lord. Our hearts, when silence prevails and distraction is kept at bay, become the living Ark of the Covenant and the place where miracles can happen. We have religious influence in one way or another: as parent or teacher, as priest or parishioner, neighbour or friend. In these capacities we can influence others and contribute to their moral principles and faith.

May the Lord show His mercy to those who are sick and may each new day increase their trust in God! Amen!! Good morning and have a wonderful day!!!