Forgiveness and healing go hand in hand. Jesus shows this truth in today’s gospel when He at first forgives the sins of the paralytic, and then grants healing (Lk. 5:20-25). Forgiveness cleanses the entire person and prepares the way for healing. But the Lord will choose to heal the entire body, or only touch the mind and heart (Lk. 5:26).

As we continue our Advent journey, let us make room for the Lord to heal us as He truly desires, by entering into the following actions:

1. Pray for personal forgiveness with a heart convicted by sorrow for our past and current sins, so that our conscience may be healed.

2. Through His grace, make the positive choice to forgive others as we are forgiven by the Lord, so that our memories are healed.

3. Celebrate the grace to forgive ourselves, so that through Jesus’ broken body on the cross, our bodies and spirits may become whole.

Lord Jesus, have mercy on me and cleanse me from my sins. May Your healing power fill my life, so that I may have the courage and love to forgive others and myself, and live the true joy of the gospel. Amen.

Blessings,

Fr. Howie

READINGS

http://usccb.org/bible/readings/121018.cfm