Altar of the Crucifixion at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem

Thursday, January 16, 2014

Thursday of the First Week in Ordinary Time

Thursday of the First Week in Ordinary Time

We have two examples of asking for God's assistance.  In the first reading, the Israelites presume that God is going to automatically come to their help.  They take the Arc of the Covenant along with them into battle.  There is no mention of any prayer, asking if God would help them and be with them against their enemies.  They almost seem to be testing God or trying to force His hand by "dragging" Him along.  The result is the death of thousands.  In the Gospel, the leper asks for healing from Jesus with faith.  He understands that it is up to God's will whether it happens or not.  He says, "If you wish".  Jesus replies, "I do will it".  The leper is made clean.

We are called to ask for God's help with faith as well.  May the grace of God be with us to help us understand His will and to accept it.

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