Mark 1:29-39

Reflection

Jesus cures Simon’s mother-in-law from a fever, and later that evening, cures many others and drives out demons. Jesus and his disciples then carry on to other parts of Galilee doing the same.

An image worth pondering is Jesus grasping Simon’s mother-in-law’s hand and helping her up. The support he provided was a simple gesture, yet made all the difference. How many times have we reached out a helping hand to those in need? We most likely have experienced the same done to us.

Jesus reaches out his helping hand to us every day, if we are willing to take it. He offers his support, love, and guidance to us. Do we take his hand or push it away? Reflect on how often you accept the Lord’s assistance or attempt to do everything on your own. We need his grace to accomplish much in our lives. Ask for the ability to always grasp Jesus’ firm, stable, loving, and never-failing helping hand.

Saint of the Day

St. Paul the Hermit: AD 228 – 341

St. Paul was born in Thebes to wealthy parents. To escape Christian persecution, he fled to the desert and remained there for the rest of his life, praying and living an austere life. He is considered one of the first desert hermits. St. Paul the Hermit, pray for us!