💖 HOMILY - JANUARY 17 💖

First Reading - Hebrews 4:1-5,11

Gospel - Mark 2:1-12

Every creation is on a journey toward its final destination. For us, that destiny is heavenly bliss — a life in eternal communion with God. But this is not something handed to us without effort. It requires perseverance, faith, and a constant striving to overcome the obstacles that come our way. The readings of the day remind us that while our destiny is secure in God, the path to reach it requires both personal effort and divine grace.

The First Reading speaks about rest — not just physical rest, but a deeper, spiritual rest in God. It draws a parallel between God’s rest after creation and the rest promised to those who remain faithful. This rest, however, is not automatic. It requires intentional effort, vigilance, and perseverance. Just as the Israelites had to journey through the wilderness to reach the Promised Land, we too must navigate through the challenges of life to attain the rest that God has prepared for us.

The Gospel passage presents a powerful account of faith in action. We see a group of people bringing a paralytic to Jesus, overcoming every obstacle to ensure he encounters the healing power of Christ. They go so far as to open the roof of the house to lower the man before Jesus. This scene highlights two key elements: faith and determination. Their faith moves them to act, and their determination breaks through barriers to reach Jesus.

What is striking in this encounter is how Jesus responds. He first forgives the paralytic’s sins before addressing his physical condition. This shows that spiritual healing is paramount — it is the gateway to a renewed life. Jesus, in forgiving sins, asserts His divine authority. And by healing the man’s paralysis, He demonstrates that this authority extends over both the spiritual and physical realms. The paralytic walks away with a new life — healed in body and soul.

This account invites us to reflect on the hurdles we face in our journey toward our heavenly destiny. Spiritual hurdles, such as sin, doubts, or despair, can weigh us down and distance us from God. Physical and emotional struggles can weaken our resolve and make us lose sight of our purpose. But the Gospel reminds us that no obstacle is too great when we place our faith in Jesus. Like the friends of the paralytic, we are called to be persistent in our journey, to break through barriers, and to trust that Jesus will grant us healing and new life.

Our destiny in God is not a passive reality. It requires active engagement. We must confront our spiritual hurdles through repentance and prayer. We must seek emotional and physical healing by drawing strength from God. And we must never lose sight of our hope in Christ, even when life’s challenges seem overwhelming.

Dear friends, the journey toward our destiny may not be a smooth path. There will be trials, setbacks, and moments of doubt. But we are not alone. Jesus walks with us, ready to forgive, heal, and strengthen us. He invites us to bring our burdens to Him, to raise our eyes in hope, and to trust in His power to give us new life.

Let us not be discouraged by the hurdles we face. Instead, let us be inspired by the faith of those who lowered the paralytic through the roof. May we, too, strive with determination to reach Jesus, knowing that He offers us rest, healing, and the grace to walk toward our final destiny with hope and confidence. May God help us to achieve the purpose of our life and lead us to the eternal rest prepared for us in His love.