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January 29, 2019
Today, some of our pilgrims visited the pool of Bethesda. In the time of Christ, a large number of ill, blind, lame, and crippled gathered at the pool daily, hoping for healing. One man that Christ encountered at the pool had been ill for thirty-eight years.
When Jesus saw him lying beside the pool, he realized that this man had been ill for a long time. Looking at him with love, Christ asked him, "Do you want to be well?"
The man looked back at Christ. He told Jesus about his weakness and struggles, and how time after time he had failed to get into the healing pool when the angel stirred the waters. He'd tried to make himself well, but without any success. So now, with Christ gazing lovingly at him, he asks for healing from the Lord.
Christ tells him, "Rise, take up your mat, and walk."
What wounds in your life would you ask Jesus to heal? What wounds have you tried to heal yourself, only to realize that it's impossible to have full healing without the help of Christ?
The name "Bethesda" means "house of mercy." Today, Christ offers us mercy in the sacrament of reconciliation. He knows that sin makes us weak, and he wants to heal us totally.
Do you want to be well?
Jesus, nothing is impossible for you. You can heal our bodies of illness, but you can also forgive our sins. Today, help me humbly recognize my sinfulness and seek your healing grace. I want to be well.
