It's a difficult truth that sometimes when we do good work, really good work, we might be criticized or even hated for it. I think artists and performers know this well, or anyone who has a passion or business or hobby that puts you in front of people. This is also so true for mothers who receive resistance towards the good things you offer to your children, or experience criticism from others because of your choices for your family.
We can take a lesson from Jesus in today's Gospel who, despite the disbelief and hardness of hearts of those around Him, boldly heals the man with the withered hand. He does this work for all to see, not hiding or diminishing His healing power.
I think that often times I can get caught up in fear of how others might negatively react, and so I hide or diminish the work and power that God wants to do through me. This Gospel encourages me to show up and allow God to do His good work through me with boldness and courage. Showing up in true goodness and authenticity always involves a risk. Others may not understand, or they may even take offense at what you do, but like Jesus' example, healing and life can be found through these experiences.
Jesus shows up in boldness and does His Father's works with strength, courage and authority, even though He knows they will then plot to kill Him. How wonderful that we have a God who is not afraid to heal us despite the hatred and disdain from others. And likewise, at any time we can also "stretch out [our] hand" to receive God's healing, life, and restoration for ourselves as well. May we receive God's healing power by fearlessly showing up as our true selves to allow God to work through us in courage and confidence!
A powerful example for us, Saint Katharine Drexel left a wealthy and comfortable life to bring healing and hope to impoverished people, including helping to found the first college for African Americans. Read her surprising journey here.
Mary Catherine Craige enjoys spending her time creating art, writing, and playing her Irish harp. As a life coach, she encourages and challenges women in all walks of life to bravely discover their purpose and to more fully live in freedom as the person they are created to be. You can find out more about her here.
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