All nations give thanks to the Lord!
The readings this week focus on healing, gratitude, and giving thanks to the Lord for his goodness to all of us.
Following the instructions of the prophet Elisha, Namaan, a Syrian general, is cured of his leprosy (First Reading). In gratitude, Namaan takes home with him some of the soil of Israel as a tangible reminder that he will from now on worship the one true God.
The Psalm is a hymn to the universal kingship of God. The Lord has made known his salvation not only to Israel, but to all nations.
The Second Reading encourages us to remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead. Although the person writing to Timothy is in prison and in chains, he is sure that the Lord’s good news cannot be bound. Even if we are faithless, God will remain faithful.
Returning to the theme of healing, the Gospel passage tells of the ten lepers who are cleansed of their leprosy. Only one of them, a Samaritan, goes back to Jesus to thank him. God’s healing reaches beyond the people of Israel.
As Pilgrims of Hope in this Jubilee Year, we remember this week all those in need of healing, whether they openly acknowledge Christ or not. We also pray for all who are ostracised and marginalised by society.
