CATHOLIC CONVERSATIONS ON THE SCRIPTURES Archdiocese of Miami - Ministry of Christian Formation

th February 22, 2009 7 Sunday in Ordinary Time (Cycle B) February 25: ASH WEDNESDAY Gospel reading: Mark 2:1-12

When Jesus returned to Capernaum after some days, it became known that he was at home. Many gathered together so that there was no longer room for them, not even around the door, and he preached the word to them. They came bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. Unable to get near Jesus because of the crowd, they opened up the roof above him. After they had broken through, they let down the mat on which the paralytic was lying. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Child, your sins are forgiven.” Now some of the scribes were sitting there asking themselves, “Why does this man speak that way? He is blaspheming. Who but God alone can forgive sins?” Jesus immediately knew in his mind what they were thinking to themselves, so he said, “Why are you thinking such things in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise, pick up your mat and walk?’ But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority to forgive sins on earth — he said to the paralytic, “I say to you, rise, pick up your mat, and go home.” He rose, picked up his mat at once, and went away in the sight of everyone. They were all astounded and glorified God, saying, “We have never seen anything like this.”

Brief commentary:

nd In his 2 chapter, Mark continues to tell stories about Jesus’ powerful miracles. Today, we cannot help but be touched by the dedication and determination of the four friends of the paralyzed man, who “opened up the roof.” Moreover, it was the faith of the paralytic and of those who carried him that moved Jesus to heal the sick man. Accounts of other miracles reveal more and more Jesus’ emphasis on faith as the requisite for exercising his healing powers. Mark also inserts a new theme: the conflict between Jesus and the scribes and Pharisees. In the first chapter, Mark emphasized how hard it was for Jesus’ followers to accept a suffering Messiah, and today he begins to explain the causes of the friction. The accusation, “He is blaspheming,” was repeated during his trial (14:60-64); only God can forgive sins. The growing opposition between Jesus and the religious leaders eventually led them to plot his death.

Today’s reading offers three significant messages:

• Jesus’ claim to be able to forgive sins reveals his identity as Son of God better than the miracles he performs. • The faith of the friends was enough to capture Jesus’ attention. • There is always a communal dimension to God’s healing touch.

For our shared or personal reflection: After a brief pause for silent reflection share your answers, ideas or feelings.

1. Am I “paralyzed” by fear or guilt because of my inability to accept God’s forgiveness? Give examples.

2. Do I let my friends help me to approach Jesus when I need his healing touch or does pride stand in my way? Explain.

Suggested readings: Catechism of the Catholic Church paragraphs 430; 574; 589; 1421; 1441; 1484; 2616.