https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/031726.cfm
From Addiction to Walking
More than 20 years ago, I underwent a shoulder replacement. Initially, the first day was pain-free thanks to a nerve block. Wow! However, once the nerve block wore off, I needed something to manage the pain. The doctor prescribed a painkiller and advised me to stay proactive in controlling the pain.
A compassionate nurse, a guiding light in my recovery, offered a helpful method to taper off painkillers and prevent dependency. She suggested, “Every four to five days,” she said, “add two hours before your next pill.” I followed her guidance, and by day 12, I was able to go 12 hours without taking one. Over the next four days, I extended the interval to twenty hours and remained pain-free. I am deeply grateful to that caring and wise nurse.
A man in the gospel was lame for 38 years, sitting by a healing pool of water. No one helped him get in when the waters stirred to heal. Jesus saw him and said, “Pick up your mat and walk.” It was probably the first thing he did for himself.
Then Jesus said to him, “Go and sin no more, or something worse may happen to you.” It’s easy for the man to slip back into helplessness, just as it’s easy for us to fall into sin again after a sincere confession. Sin is similar to painkillers — it numbs the pain that sin causes until everything collapses.
What stands out to me in this scene is how Jesus approached the paralyzed man. He asked, “Do you want to be well?” The man replied, “Sir, I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred.” He didn’t realize that the only help he needed was a word of healing from Jesus. Jesus then said, “Rise, take up your mat and walk.”
Gospel Challenge:
How often does Jesus ask us, “Do you want to be well?” Consider what sin or doubt blocks your spiritual growth. Take a moment to pray and ask Jesus for healing, trusting in His power to transform your life. Let His question inspire you to move beyond excuses, like, “Sir, I have no one to put me in the pool.”
Love Your Neighbor:
Peace be with you.
Fr. Rick Pilger, IC
www.bscchurch.com
