In today’s Gospel reading, we are given two accounts of miraculous healings. I am drawn especially to the woman afflicted with hemorrhages for 12 years. Like her, I too suffered for many years trying to find healing, in my case for addiction and unhealthy attachments. Like the woman who sought the help of doctors, I also probably relied too heavily on secular help, such as psychotherapy. Yet, as we see today, it is ultimately in recognizing Christ as the true healer that we are able to receive healing. When we recognize the divinity and power of Jesus and approach Him with faith, however timidly, He always responds. Sometimes quickly (like with the hemorrhaging woman), sometimes slowly (like with some of my own unhealthy attachments). He always gives us what we need to heal.

I’ll never forget the insight expressed by a sister in recovery: “Maybe my prayer for freedom from this attachment is actually a prayer for perfection.” It was somewhat of an epiphany for me, helping me realize that our journey of healing is a process, a “race” that may not result in our perfect healing all at once. I came to understand my journey of healing from my unhealthy attachments less as one of struggle and failure and, instead, one of trust, acceptance, and redemption. God is answering my prayers for healing in His all-loving, all-knowing way. When we surrender to the will of God, we are transformed—one day at a time—on our beautiful journey of recovery.

Reflection Questions

• Are you currently struggling with any persistent character defects or inordinate attachments? How is the Lord answering your prayers for healing, whether quickly or slowly?
• How do you discern the difference between being “perfect” and living freely with trust in God’s healing?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Hebrews 12:1-4
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 22:26b-27, 28 and 30, 31-32
Gospel: Mark 5:21-43

Reflection by Kevin K.