“ He said to the paralytic, ‘get up, pick up your bed and go home!’ “
Matthew 9:1-6
Sins forgiven and paralysis cured, the words, “Go home!” must have sounded like music to the ears of the paralytic brought to Jesus. Granted a new lease on life, he is now equipped to fulfill his responsibilities for his family.
What ‘sin-sickness’ so afflicts our families today that it renders us seemingly powerless to live out our mission as domestic church? The signs of paralysis are evident: erosion of values, abdicating of responsibilities, inability/unwillingness to adequately meet the demands of parenting…..
Like those persons in today’s Gospel story, we must consider the current situation and its attendant factors, some deep rooted and systemic, and do what is necessary to actualize the desired change.
It is not sufficient to lament the symptoms and painful consequences of this paralysis, but to collectively get to the root causes and take actions that will bring about healing and restoration. Home will then be a place of joy!
Holy Spirit, enlighten us that we may see what needs to be done and grant us the willingness and courage to do it. Amen.
Photo by Benjamin Davies on Unsplash