5 July 2021
Optional Memorial of Saint Elizabeth of Portugal
Two interesting events in today’s Gospel: Jesus was speaking to a crowd when a Roman official interrupted him by kneeling and asking for a favor. Later, while bustling through a crowd, a woman surreptitiously touched his cloak, seeking another favor.
Like everyone else I find myself swallowed up in a crowd of people, texting, glued to my smartphone and computer, attending meetings, shopping, etc. Do I ever stop, even for a moment imitating the action of the Roman official or the sick woman? While on earth Jesus was frequently in the midst of the crowd. Isn’t he still there? Do I ever stop and recognize his presence?
Doesn’t he still wait for those who have need to seek him out, requesting what they need? The Scriptures tell us that even the briefest word from the blind, lepers, and the sick were enough for him to respond.
When I receive him in the Eucharist, he gives me his body, the source of my spiritual vitality, eager for me to ask what I need and what I want.