It is 15th January 2021.
The readings are from Hebrews 4:1-5, 11; and the Gospel from Mark 2:1-12
We all love rest for our life as the pandemic is exhausting us in every way possible. Some of us are exhausted emotionally, financially, and having a chocking feeling of living in a small room for the past ten months all around the world. The uncertainty still pervades all around us. In this background, the first reading offers the deeper meaning of rest in the life of the people of Israel. Whenever the people of Israel did not use the opportunities God gave them during their desert experience, they were exhausted and tired.
The rest that God promises is permanent and God’s Word, the Good News when it is accepted, and we enjoy it. We are the ones who enjoy this rest because of our trust and faith in God. the balance in our life comes from the faith we place in the Lord, trust in the people. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Mt.11:28)
The responsorial Psalm reminds, “Do not forget the works of the Lord” (Ps.78:7).
The Gospel brings out a new perspective of faith and friendship. The friends of the paralytic did a dramatic and drastic action to approach Jesus due to the crowds. Health, healing and rest come from Jesus, they knew and believed it. Four men could mean also the four corners of the world rushes towards the suffering persons when they wish to come near Jesus. When our sins are forgiven, we obtain the blessings of health and healing that brings the rest for our entire being. Who are those four people in our life willing to bring us closer to Jesus? May the Lord heal us and grant us the rest we need.