For God all things are possible

Readings for Tuesday March 24, 2009

First Reading:  Ezekiel 47:1-9

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 46

Gospel:  John 5:1-16

"Do you want to be well?"
The sick man answered him,  "Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up; while I am on my way, someone else gets down there before me."
Jesus said to him, "Rise, take up your mat, and walk."
Immediately the man became well, took up his mat, and walked. (John 5:6-9)

In this gospel reading, we have an interesting exchange between Jesus and the man who is ill.  It is clear that this man does not understand what he is being asked or who Jesus is.  When asked if he wants to be well, the man does not say yes or no, but only begins to give an excuse as to why he is not well.  This is a typical human response; cut straight to the point with the reason (or reasons) why we don't or cannot have something.  It seems that we are too reliant on our worldly circumstances rather than what is possible through God.  When will we stop making excuses and just go to God with what we need?  The truth is, God already knows what we need, He knows everything, but are we willing to humble ourselves and go to Him for help?  Going to God in prayer isn't so much as a daily session where we keep God up to date on our needs; prayer is for us to recognize our need for Him, and How weak and small that we truly are.  

God is asking us simple questions, are we truly listening, or are we just waiting to give an excuse?   

Jesus shows this man, and us, that He is stronger and more powerful than any circumstance or hardship that we have or will face on this earth.  Let us reflect on the words of our Lord; "For human beings this is impossible, but for God all things are possible." (Matt 19:26)

Father above, we thank you for the gift of this day.  Lord, we are our great Lord, help us to remember that we are here because of your love and grace.   Lord, we pray for hearts and minds that are set upon you, and that we may seek to do your will each day.  Lord, help us to walk in faith and trust in you, not fearing the things of this world, but instead fearing an eternity without you.  We ask this all through Christ our Lord.  Amen.