CARRIED BY FRIENDS
Hebrews 4:1-5, 11; Psalm 77; Mark 2:1-12
Like the friends of the paralytic we must make every effort to bring our friends, unbelievers and the spiritually paralyzed ones to Jesus. We must pray and ensure that carnally minded friends become spiritually minded.
Some will ask; why do Catholics baptize infants when they cannot express their faith or be responsible for it? Today’s gospel makes us to understand that the faith of parents or friends suffices for the baptism of infants.
The paralytic was brought to Jesus by his friends and he was restored by the reason of their faith. The Gospel says in Mark 2:5 “When Jesus saw THEIR FAITH, he said to the paralyzed man, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” Beloved, carry a friend today or a relative. We rise by lifting others. Sometimes we are accountable not just for ourselves, but for others as well (Cf. Ezek. 3:18-19).
Lastly, the second reading reminds us about sabbath rest (HEB. 4:1-5). It warns us not to miss God’s rest. The group that escaped Egypt was barred from Canaan by unbelief. The promise of accessing His rest still stands, and we can do so through faith. We won’t receive the rest God has prepared for us if we remain unbelievers. Bring your friend to Jesus.
LET US PRAY
Lord God, you hold out the light of your Word to those who do not know you. Strengthen in our hearts the faith you have given us, so that no trials may quench the fire your Spirit has kindled within us. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
