Thursday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time
Today’s scripture reading highlights how Jesus was often surrounded by crowds during his ministry. Sometimes these gatherings were so large that people had to find other ways to access Jesus. For example, they opened up the roof of a house to lower a person to be in Jesus’ presence. What were the reasons that people thronged to see and hear Jesus, and would we be a part of that crowd?
In today’s gospel, Jesus leaves Galilee but many people from that region follow him towards the sea. When news spread, people from other areas gather around just trying to touch Jesus to receive his healing. The crowds were so great that Jesus asked his disciples to have a boat ready, so he would not be crushed. As I imagine this scene, it is noisy group of people pushing and pulling just to find a way to be close to Jesus. Their desire is great because their faith assures them that Jesus could bring them healing and wholeness. Even the unclean spirits see Him and fall down as they recognize that Jesus is the Son of God. Everyone gathered realizes that Jesus is unlike anyone that they have ever seen or heard, and they long to be with Him.
Do we actively seek Jesus in our lives? Do we take measures to do what we can do to be closer to Him? Through sacraments, scripture, and prayer, do we reach out to touch Jesus, so He can bring us healing and wholeness? Do we make living our faith a priority, where we will do whatever we need to not only be with Jesus, but to follow Him and His ways?
Spend some time imagining what it would be like to be in the large crowd that surrounded Jesus. How do you feel being among all of the people yearning to be close to Jesus? Do you have this same desire? Pray for the grace to deepen your faith that Jesus is the Son of God, and ask for the wisdom and courage to follow Him wherever He calls you to go.
—Marylynn Herchline