Jesus teaches and heals Luke 6: 17-19
Imaginative Contemplation
Enter into the scene
I remember the day well. A sunny morning, the light shining on the sea, the waves splashing on the shore, the leaves rustling in the breeze. There was a sense of expectancy and excitement among the many people who had gathered from miles around. Jesus was in the midst of the people, a charismatic leader if ever there was one! And he could cope with the interruptions as people tried to touch the edge of his cloak. There were about a dozen men with him, watching him with deep admiration. Were they his chosen leaders?
Jesus’ words were astounding; ‘blessed are the poor in spirit!’ And the people yelled ‘Amen!’ I looked around. These people were poor in spirit. They were open to God’s message of love and forgiveness. Jesus proclaimed, ‘Blessed are the merciful!’ At that, a man pushed through the crowd, opening the way for his disabled companion. Jesus stopped, turned around to talk with them. The next thing I saw was the young man, who previously had a very pronounced limp, jumping up and down, yelling, ‘I’m healed!’ A big smile on Jesus’ face, and gasps of surprise and wonder all around. Then I heard a lone voice shouting out in defiance of Jesus’ declaration of the blessedness of those who are merciful. ‘Who do you think you are, Jesus of Nazareth? Making trouble again?’ Jesus calmly looked at him. ‘Begone, Satan!’ he said. The man whose face had been twisted in rage, whose voice was harsh and shrill, suddenly stopped, confused, and a deep calm spread across his whole body. He sank to the ground, utterly exhausted. Jesus held out his hand and helped him to his feet. ‘It’s alright, Jude. You are free of those thoughts which have tormented you for so long. Trust in God and his love for you.’ The people close to Jesus and this now calm man were silent, utterly amazed by the change in this man’s demeanour.
By now it was getting late, and I had to return home for my children. But I will never forget the events of that momentous day!
For further reflection
Discuss with Jesus the following points:
· Do I allow myself to be aware of my natural surroundings? How does this calm me?
· How do I deal with distractions and interruptions?
· Am I aware of the individual needs of the people around me? How can I respond to these needs?
· Jesus is not afraid of the possessed man, He reaches out to him in his need. Am I sometimes afraid of some people or places? Can I discern whether these fears are justified or not?
· When has fear stopped me from following Jesus? How can I overcome these fears?
Prayer
Lord, help me to be strong in word and action as I try to follow your example of universal love and acceptance. Amen.