https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/070626.cfm
Effective Prayer
Have you ever wondered why God sometimes answers our prayers immediately, but other times it feels like it takes forever? This is a common question many of us have. Today’s gospel provides some useful insights to help us better understand this.
The woman in the gospel had been suffering from hemorrhages for 12 years. I wonder how often she prayed to the Lord for healing. In today’s gospel story, the official earnestly asked Jesus to revive his deceased son. Jesus compassionately rose and accompanied him, demonstrating His sincere concern and readiness to assist.
In this case, Jesus directly felt the father’s grief and sorrow, turning it into a personal experience for Him. Likewise, for the woman with a hemorrhage, Jesus probably required a close encounter so she could understand that He carried her suffering within His Body.
When you pray for yourself or others, keep in mind that Jesus is with you personally. Don’t only ask Him to heal or perform miracles to improve your life. Instead, kneel with the person and ask Jesus to lay His hand on you, sharing your pain and suffering—particularly the pain you carry for someone else. This is a personal encounter with Jesus.
Remember, Jesus quickly got up and went to his son’s bed, demonstrating His always-available presence. Also, recall that a simple touch of Jesus’ cloak was enough for Him to feel the pain and suffering of the woman with hemorrhage. His response is consistently prompt and personal.
Gospel Challenge:
Let’s aim to make each moment of our lives an encounter with Jesus, allowing Him to carry on His saving work through us. This gospel motivates us to remain in continuous communion with Him.
Communion with Jesus is more important than anything we could ask Him to do for us or for others.
Love Your Neighbor!
Fr. Rick Pilger, IC
www.bscchurch.com
