Thursday, February 8, 2024

5th Week, Ordinary Time, Friday, 09-02-2024

1 Kings 11:29-32; 12:19 / Mark 7:31-37    

One of the sad and tragic realities of humanity is the division and separation between persons, peoples and nations.

In this division and separation, relationships are broken, and with that hostilities begin to arise.

Walls and borders are also erected to block any possible dialogue and reconciliation.

In the 1st reading, we heard of the separation and division of the People of God into two nations, and there would never be a reunion.

This happened because the leaders and the people turned away from God and worshipped idols.

Yet, God did not leave His people in that divided and broken state.

God even sent His Son to bring His people back to Him.

In the gospel, the healing of the deaf man with an impediment in his speech was an expression of God’s desire to unite people in His love.

It was on the Cross that Jesus expressed God’s desire for reconciliation and reunion with Him.

On the Cross, Jesus broke down the walls and barriers of hate and hostility.

Let us fix our hearts on the Cross as we strive for forgiveness, reconciliation and peace.