The Gospel reading also invites us to reflect on the company we keep. If I am the paralytic, I certainly want to have those four men around me who are willing to go to those lengths to get me as close to the source of healing as possible. On our life-long and ever-evolving recovery and faith journeys, we should therefore strive to develop Christ-centered relationships that sustain us along the way. So that, when push comes to shove, we have people in our lives willing to bring us close to the healing touch of Jesus—no matter what obstacles might be before them.

Reflection Questions

• What areas of your faith or recovery are you being called to go deeper?
• Do you have people in your life who are willing to bring you near the healing touch of Christ? How are you serving in that role for others in need of Christ’s healing?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: 1 Samuel 8:4-7, 10-22a
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 89:16-17, 18-19
Gospel: Mark 2:1-12

Reflection by Allison H.