PASTORAL CARE OF THE SICK
Colossians 1:1-8; Psalm 52; Luke 4:38-44
In Luke 4:38, Jesus left the synagogue for Simon’s house for pastoral care of the sick, and at daybreak, he left his house and made his way to a lonely place to pray (Luke 4:42). Jesus combined public and private prayers. A true Christian must balance his communal prayer with his private prayer life.
Pastoral care for the sick is a form of spiritual and emotional support provided to individuals who are ill or facing health challenges. It is an essential aspect of evangelization and outreach. Hence, the ministry of care or healing does not end on the pulpit; it extends to the streets.
The main goals of pastoral care of the sick include providing spiritual and physical comfort, emotional support, encouraging hope and resilience, facilitating communication, offering guidance on ethical and moral dilemmas relating to treatment options, and promoting a sense of community between patients and the Christian body.
Paul’s letter to the Colosians in the first reading provides us with another example of pastoral care. The letter was written to strengthen the community’s faith while also correcting misconceptions and heretical inclinations that had been introduced.
Again, the gospel says, “All those who had friends suffering… brought them to Jesus” (Luke 4:40). What kind of friends do we have? Are they fostering or obstructing our spiritual growth? Do you lay the intentions of your friends before Jesus?
LET US PRAY
Father, we need healing spiritually, physically and pastorally. We are tormented by plenty of vices. Heal us through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
