Jesus meets a leper, who begs to be made clean. To be made clean meant that the leper could rejoin the community, rather than live as an outcast. Jesus was able to see this man with the eyes of compassion and to offer him a way out of his life of suffering. When we experience pain, misery, and anguish, we realize how much we need one another and God. How can we share God’s love and closeness with those who feel cut off from the support of the community?
- Reflection by Mary Heinrich in “Celebrating Sunday for Catholic Families 2023-24” published by Liturgy Training Publications.