The Light that Heals

Tuesday, January 30, 2018

Mark 1:32-33: That evening at sundown they brought to Him all who were sick or oppressed by demons. And the whole city was gathered together at the door.

Why did the whole city show up at Simon Peter's house? They found out that Jesus healed Simon Peter's mother-in-law. Word spread like wild fire that Jesus was there and that Jesus healed. So now everyone who was ill, injured, and even demon possessed were brought that evening for Jesus to bring His healing power upon them. Everyone who was hurting, struggling, and needing the light of Jesus and His life showed up. Jesus then took the time to heal and to cast out the demons. After that Jesus said, "We need to move on. More people need the light of life in their lives."

Now let's move forward to right now. The need is still there. People are hurting, struggling, living and dying. People still need the work that Jesus does for them. People still need Him. And they're asking, "Where is Jesus? I don't see Him. Pain and suffering still happen. People are still dying. And the people who claim to know Him don't seem to care. They seem to care more for themselves than for others."

Ouch. That's harsh criticism. And that criticism is not unfounded. We say we care for people. For example, I see posts on Facebook about struggles and requests for prayer. I see replies with "I'm praying for you" or the folded hands emojie. Rarely do we see a prayer typed up or a request, "What can I do?" 

James in his epistle tells us that desires for prayer and prayers are good. Caring for others in need and putting our faith into action is better.  You see, Jesus sent the Holy Spirit into the world and the Church to equip us for the tasks and needs at hand, to encourage with God's hope and promise when we fail, and to engage us with His Love so that people are taken care of, that needs and hurts are dealt with, and that the light that heals comes to bear in people's lives. Holy Spirit, empower us to more fully be a part of the lives who are in need, Amen.