It was a Sabbath, so as usual Jesus went to the synagogue. Inside there was a man with a withered hand. Those around watched Jesus closely, wondering if he would heal him.

Some Pharisees were also intent on finding fault with Jesus. Working on the Sabbath was prohibited and, in some of the Experts views, if Jesus healed the man it would be against their laws.

Jesus, knowing their intentions asked,“Would not any one of you, if he had one sheep that fell into a pit on the Sabbath, take hold of it and lift it out? How much more valuable is a person than a sheep! So it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.”

No one commented, so Jesus asked the man to stretch out his hand and immediately, the power to his hand was restored.  (Matthew 12:9-14, Mark 3:1-6, Luke 6:6-11)

THOUGHT

“There is still time for endurance, time for patience, time for healing, time for a change. Have you slipped? Rise up. Have you sinned? Do not stand among sinners but leap aside”. (St Basil)

REFLECTION

Lord Jesus, help me to see and do only good.
May my dreams, hopes and desires be empty of all anger and deceit.
And my undying love for you, never weaken.

PRAYER: HOLY ARE YOUR WAYS

Help me to understand, Lord,
that what counts is not the road travelled,
but simply putting my hand in yours
and journeying side by side with you.
Lord Jesus, you are the joy of my journey,
the repose in our Father’s home.
Holy, holy is the Lord,
for eternal is your love.