Carried by Friends
1 Samuel 8:4–7, 10–22 ; Psalm 77; Mark 2:1–12
Like the friends of the paralyzed, we must make every effort to bring our friends, the unbelievers, and the spiritually paralyzed 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 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 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 or a relative to Jesus today. Have good people around you who can intercede and pray with you. Bad friends corrupt good character (1 Corinthians 15:33), but good friends are great riches. Henry Ford says, “My best friend is the one who brings out the best in me.” Bring out the best, not the beast, in your friend. We rise by lifting others up. Lift a friend up today. Sometimes we are accountable not just for ourselves but for others as well (cf. Ezek. 3:18–19).
Lastly, the first reading (1 Samuel 8:4–7, 10–22) teaches important lessons about the consequences of human decisions, the importance of trusting in God’s guidance, and the potential pitfalls of placing too much reliance on human authority. Choose wisely.
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 Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
