Great crowds came to him,
having with them the lame, the blind, the deformed, the mute,
and many others.
Is it possible not to see what Jesus saw? Is it possible that our hearts are not moved with pity at the same spectacle? The blind can see and are moved by such sights; and yet many people are not.
They placed them at his feet, and he cured them.The crowds were amazed when they saw the mute speaking, the deformed made whole, the lame walking, and the blind able to see, and they glorified the God of Israel.
We used to call these "miracle stories," but "Science" -- who is he anyway? -- dismissed miracles as unacceptable behavior on the part of a God who should not exist. So we call them signs and wonders. Which is a better expression as they signify the presence, authority, and generosity of the Lord God of Heaven and Earth, who has more presence and authority, and is far more wonderful than any science.
But the real problem with science is that, despite its seeing what Jesus saw, it doesn't care. Science makes many claims and demands much, but it owes nothing. Jesus and his people can never be satisfied with that. Seeing "the lame, the blind, the deformed, the mute, and many others," they are compelled by pity to act.
"...it is essential to insist on this path to holiness, for 'in this call to recognize him in the poor and the suffering, we see revealed the very heart of Christ, his deepest feelings and choices, which every saint seeks to imitate.'”
Pope Francis and Pope Leo recognize this path to holiness as both necessary and very long.
We have a saying, "Well begun is half done;" but a good beginning can be deceptive. The path to holiness is as long as human history, which began in prehistoric times and may stretch into an immeasurable future. This journey requires the supernatural commitment which only the Holy Spirit can give us.
We must make progress but we should not expect progress. Or at least none that we can measure. The best action plans may have a goal but the Deadline has not been revealed.
"They all ate and were satisfied. They picked up the fragments left over–seven baskets full."
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I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.