12 Nov
Wed
32nd Week in Ordinary Time
St Josaphat, bishop & martyr
Tit 3:1-7
Ps 23(22):1-3,3-4,5-6
Lk 17:11-19
(Ps Wk IV)
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In this story of the Ten Lepers, Luke has included much theology: we can only select a few points for reflection.

The healing miracles of Jesus signify salvation. At the time of Jesus, leprosy was such a terrible disease that curing a person from it was equivalent to raising him from the dead. We may not suffer as the people in the miracle stories of the Gospel suffer, but we are nevertheless in the same situation as they are. Like them, we are in need of the salvation and the comfort, the healing and the hope which Jesus brings. Every part of the story of the Ten Lepers is very pertinent to our own spiritual lives and the faith we try to live.

Luke tells the story very simply: nothing spectacular or strange happens. God's power and wisdom do not need anything spectacular or wonderful to recommend it. So, too, in our own lives, God works in simple and wise ways to heal and save us. Believing is healing: all that Jesus demands of the lepers is to do what they had to do once they have been cured. It is almost as if Jesus had said: "Believe that you have already been healed and act accordingly." All Jesus demands of them is faith and hope.




Lord, I believe: help my unbelief.




DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That all who suffer loneliness may experience the closeness of God and the support of others.
Elaboration

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