Homily for the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B
First Reading: Wisdom 1:13–15; 2:23–24; Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 8:7, 9, 13–15; Gospel: Mark 5:21–43
In physics, we learn that energy is the ability to do work. It exists in various forms, all of which can be transformed from one kind to another. These forms are kinetic, potential, thermal, solar, electrical, chemical, and nuclear energies. Also, energy is the source of life for any living creature or a given device. For instance, electrical devices cannot function unless connected to an energy source. Similarly, without God giving us life through the biological energy of our parents, we wouldn’t have been in existence. Of course, we cannot work effectively without energy or survive without food and water, especially when we are sick. This implies that energy is essential for life; without it, no work can be done.
We all yearn for energy so that we can continue to be active and productive in every aspect of our lives. But what if I tell you there is a wellspring of divine power within us, waiting to be tapped? Join me as we explore how Christ’s healing energy can revitalize our lives and restore us to wholeness.
God is the Ultimate Source of Energy
The first reading from the Book of Wisdom reveals that God is the ultimate source of all life and goodness. He created everything with inherent goodness and vitality. However, the devil, out of envy, introduced sin into the world, resulting in sickness, disorder, lethargy, and death (Romans 5:12). Despite this, God’s life-giving power, or divine energy, remains unaltered. He sent His only begotten Son to salvage humanity from her infirmities.
Jesus Christ, the embodiment of divine energy, came into the world to destroy the works of the devil (1 John 3:8). He came to heal humanity’s wounds caused by sin and restore her to the fullness of life (John 10:10). This divine energy is not just a concept but a transformative force that empowers us to live fully and serve God effectively.
Faith in Jesus Christ: A Conduit for Divine Energy
In today’s gospel, we witness the profound healing power of Jesus Christ. The woman afflicted with hemorrhage for 12 years was healed instantly when she touched the fringe of Jesus’ garment with faith (Mark 5:28–30). Similarly, Jairus’ daughter was brought back to life through Christ’s restorative power. These miracles highlight that true faith in Jesus Christ acts as a conduit for divine energy.
With just a single touch on the fringe of Jesus’ garment with faith, tremendous power (divine energy) was transmitted to her. Christ’s healing power is not limited to physical ailments but extends to spiritual, emotional, and psychological healing. When we encounter Jesus Christ with faith through the scriptures, sacraments, and fervent prayers, we tap into His divine energy, allowing it to transform and heal us from within.
Experiencing Divine Energy through Sacraments
Many people are not only physically sick but also spiritually, emotionally, and psychologically sick and dead. They cannot give a healing touch to others because they hardly go to the healing centre (confession). We need to beg Jesus, like the people in today’s gospel, to heal us so that we can obtain divine energy and healing power to heal and revive others, especially those suffering from different infirmities.
Every day, Jesus Christ dispenses His divine energy and healing power through His words and sacraments, especially during Holy Mass, even when we do not recognize it (Luke 5:17). Moreover, we can experience His divine touch more when we frequently go to confession and worthily receive the Holy Eucharist. So, when we faithfully study the scriptures, receive the Holy Eucharist, and go to confession, we become carriers of divine energy.
How to Become a Wellspring of Divine Energy for Others
1. Constant Communion with God:
Strive to maintain a consistent relationship with God through fervent prayer. This will empower you with the Holy Spirit’s guidance and strength. The scripture says, “Pray continually” (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
2. Nourishing Your Spirit with God’s Word:
Dedicate daily time to studying the Bible. This will provide spiritual growth, wisdom, and understanding. Jesus says, “Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeded out of the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4).
3. Frequent Confessions and Forgive Others:
Regularly confess your sins to God and seek His forgiveness. In turn, learn to forgive others as God forgives you. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all evil” (1 John 1:9).
4. Honesty and Integrity:
Be honest, transparent, and sincere when carrying out your responsibilities. Jesus Christ tells His disciples, “Let your yes be yes, and your no, no” (Matthew 5:37).
5. Having a Strong Faith in God:
Develop unwavering faith in God’s promises and plans. In other words, always work by faith and not by sight (Habakkuk 2:4). The scripture says, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). Also, no one can please God without faith, anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and rewards those who seek Him (Hebrews 11:6).
6. Contributing Your Gifts:
Always use your knowledge or talents to contribute positively towards the growth and development of your family, community, and society. “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms” (1 Peter 4:10).
7. Love Sincerely:
Love people sincerely, regardless of their background or circumstances. Always help those in need without expecting anything in return. “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31).
Sharing Divine Energy with Others
St. Paul enjoins us in the second reading to continue Christ’s redemptive work on earth by sharing divine energy with others. In other words, burning ourselves like candles for others, in humility for the sake of Christ. Jesus Christ was very rich in all ramifications but became poor for our sake so that we might become rich (2 Corinthians 8:9). Our healing touch can be demonstrated in diverse ways. It could be good advice, fraternal corrections, smiles, compliments, encouragement, gratitude, forgiveness, respect, adequate remuneration, etc. Also, magic words like please, thank you, I am sorry, excuse me, etc., can play a crucial role too.
These attitudes help to heal people emotionally, boost their morale, and restore them to life so that they can discharge their duties properly. They tend to promote the Kingdom of God. As we know, doctors and health workers do their best to show care and restore the lives of the sick, but it is ultimately Jesus Christ who heals. We have divine potentials (energy) inherent in us, so let us use them to heal and restore others to life.
Conclusion
As we navigate our daily lives, it is very imperative to recognize and embrace the divine energy that God imbues in us. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can be healed of every malady that challenges our lives. This divine energy not only restores what is dead within us but also empowers us to be instruments of healing for others.
By embodying Christ’s love and compassion, we can dispense this divine energy through acts of kindness, forgiveness, and encouragement. Ultimately, it is through Jesus Christ, our Lord, that we find true restoration and wholeness. Therefore, let us pray for the grace to continually receive and share this divine energy, bringing life and healing to those whom we encounter.
Prayer:
May the Almighty God grant you divine healing of mind and body. May He empower you with His divine energy for greater productivity, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
Peace of Christ be with you…
Rev. Fr. Benjamin Okala, C.S.Sp.
