HEALING MINISTRY
1 Samuel 3:1-10, 19-20; PSALM 40; Mark 1:29–39
The gospel of today presents us with the healing ministry of Jesus. His healing ministry is all-encompassing; it involves teaching (Mark 1:21), deliverance (Mark 1:25), healing (Mark 1:29–34), praying (Mark 1:35), and preaching (Mark 1:39).
These categories capture the manifesto of Jesus Christ in Luke 4:18. Therefore, in Christ’s ministry, a part is not separated from the whole. The healing ministry of Jesus does not only focus on the physical restoration of a sick person but also on the absolute restoration of man to God.
And so, salvation is the best healing a man can receive. What are ministers doing today? What do you think about healing ministry? Where is the message of salvation in today’s ‘Healing Centers’?
Beloved, God continues to call men into ministry, but like Samuel in the first reading, we must learn to say, ‘Speak, Lord, your servant is listening’ Many of us are just talking and praying; we don’t actually listen. We are doing the work of God, but not according to the God of the work.
PRAYER
Father, may we not focus on particular healing at the detriment of the message of salvation. Guide us in the exercise of the ministry you have given us. Prompt our actions with your grace. Amen!
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
