Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time B

BEADS OF JOY 2-05-12 
©2012 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

Today is the Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time B
Today’s Gospel is: Mark 1:29-39 (Jesus Heals Many)

“And immediately he left the synagogue, and entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. Now Simon's mother-in-law lay sick with a fever, and immediately they told him of her. And he came and took her by the hand and lifted her up, and the fever left her; and she served them. That evening, at sundown, they brought to him all who were sick or possessed with demons. And the whole city was gathered together about the door. And he healed many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons; and he would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew him. And in the morning, a great while before day, he rose and went out to a lonely place, and there he prayed. And Simon and those who were with him pursued him, and they found him and said to him, "Everyone is searching for you.” And he said to them, "Let us go on to the next towns that I may preach there also; for that is why I came out." And he went throughout all Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and casting out demons.”
1 – Our Father -10 Hail Mary’s –Glory be… - Oh My Jesus…

Reflection: Sometimes sickness is permitted by God and many ask why. It is permitted for the sole purpose of us glorifying God. Jesus was beaten, whipped and killed upon the Cross alone; shows us how through suffering, Jesus was made perfect before God and through that suffering we are brought to Him. Suffering is so misunderstood by the world. In today’s gospel there is no doubt in observation of Peter’s character, that Peter is one of our Lords most devoted followers, and his love for his mother in law is sincere, and most precious. He was truly a most commendable son in law. Today let us look at this healing, this wonderful miracle; and let us think about how we handle and consider the trials, struggles and even illnesses in our own lives and families. Here’s a thought, “Do we really place all our trust in Jesus when we are suffering?” It is when we are brought to our knees that we finally look up to God and ask why? It is that final humble approach that brings us to where we most certainly need to be before God respectfully.

On a personal note, there was a time when we lived a sort of Soprano lifestyle. No not mafia, I am referring to spending without concern or worry ever about money, we knew more cash would be in our hands tomorrow. A lifestyle, I can’t even begin explain properly. Think of this: Have you ever went shopping and just left and paid and swiped your debit/credit card and never knew or cared what you spent? Well we lived like that for more than two decades. It’s all different now, and with Chrissy’s life threatening illness we are also brought to our knees. When God wants our hearts fully, “His will” will take us directly to Himself. Suffering is indeed a blessing, an unexplainable blessing we must learn to embrace. Remember this, all suffering is followed by thanksgiving and blessings and praise to Almighty God for His love and mercy.

Your brother in Christ Jesus & His Most Blessed Mother,
Jim (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS