Our Gospel lesson is Mark 1:29-39, taken today from the New American Standard Bible (NASB).
And immediately after they came out of the synagogue, they came into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. Now Simon’s mother-in-law was lying sick with a fever; and immediately they spoke to Jesus about her. And He came to her and raised her up, taking her by the hand, and the fever left her, and she waited on them. When evening came, after the sun had set, they began bringing to Him all who were ill and those who were demon-possessed. And the whole city had gathered at the door. And He healed many who were ill with various diseases, and cast out many demons; and He was not permitting the demons to speak, because they knew who He was. In the early morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went away to a secluded place, and was praying there. Simon and his companions searched for Him; they found Him, and said to Him, “Everyone is looking for You.” He said to them, “Let us go somewhere else to the towns nearby, so that I may preach there also; for that is what I came for.” And He went into their synagogues throughout all Galilee, preaching and casting out the demons.
Several times in this passage we hear about Jesus healing people of illness and casting out demons. This was a large part of His mission, to show that God wants us to be healthy and in connection with Him. What better way to show His love then by restoring people?
Jesus didn’t perform miracles and healing to gain fame for Himself, but to focus people’s attention on how much God wants us to be part of what He is doing in the world. We are called to hear and share the Good News, letting everyone know we are God’s beloved children. Loving God and each other is at the top of His list of commands for us.
Jesus knows demonstrating God’s love and care for us is the best way to teach us to go and do so as well. While He healed individuals mentally and physically, He came to heal us all spiritually. Now it is up to us to continue reaching people in His name, caring for them in body and spirit as He has taught us.
Gracious God, we are glad to be part of Your work here, reaching out to help and heal a broken world. Make us strong in Your love, sharing Your gift with everyone. Amen.