Explication
Every day
Biblical commentaries
Jesus, having just arrived in his town of Capernaum, is joined by the crowd. Among her, a paralyzed person who is presented to her. This presentation is made without words. No question like: “Who sinned: him or his parents?” ”, nor an explicit request for healing. Just a presence, undoubtedly inhabited by the confidence that what happens will be just and good. Is it this silent and trusting presence that allows Jesus to see their faith and show his mercy?
Faced with the difficulties and trials of life, we often feel helpless. Today’s text can awaken our faith in intercessory prayer, this presentation to the Lord – in word or deed – of what dwells in our hearts. “To intercede means to grant our brother the same right that we ourselves have received; the right to present ourselves before Christ to share in his mercy” wrote Dietrich Bonhoeffer, in his book on community life.
Let us not fear to listen to this impulse of the heart which turns us towards our brothers and sisters, and with them towards the God of Life, silencing within us the murmurings which obscure the gaze and close the heart. So, renewed and strengthened by his grace, let us arise and continue our journey.
Other readings: Am 7, 10-17; Ps 18B (19)
