Lord, Only Say the Word and Heal

December 3, 2007
Memorial of Saint Francis Xavier, priest

By Beth DeCristofaro

For over all, the Lord’s glory will be shelter and protection (Isaiah 4: 6)

For the house of the Lord, our God, I pray, “May blessings be yours.” (Psalm 122: 9)

Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed. (Matthew 8:8)

Piety

My God, I am not worthy to have you enter my roof, yet you arrive there. I am not worthy that you heal my hurts, yet you stoop and relieve my pain. I am not worthy yet you ask that I bring your presence to the world just as you asked your faithful servant, Francis. May I serve you each day knowing that you will enter my roof bringing strength and healing.

Study

http://www.usccb.org/nab/120307.shtml

Where is God in turbulent, brutal times? There are some who say that hurricane Katrina caused such devastation because we “dis-invited” God from our country. There are (a few) people who feel that the war in Iraq is God’s punishment for allowing homosexuals into the military. And certainly, reading the Old Testament, one might see such a God – except the God of the Israelites believes in giving second, third and seven-times-seven chances to the Chosen People. He who remains in Zion and he who is left in Jerusalem Will be called holy: every one marked down for life in Jerusalem. (Is 4: 3) Isaiah’s apocalyptic images include a saving, loyal God. Isaiah’s God acts according to promises made, even to a fickle people.

But Jesus calls us to much more. He responds to the faith of a non-believer, an oppressor to His own people. He rejoices in the faith of a man who recognizes the power and promise of God. He responds to the faith of one asking mercy for another. He responds to one who “comes knocking.” What do we ask of God? Our daily bread? Forgiveness for ourselves and others? The sure knowledge that God is among us despite hurt, sadness and fear? Do we hold it against others if we do not feel God moving in our lives?

In Advent we await the celebration of the earthly coming of God. Our patience and hope is tested – yet strengthened and intensified - if we look for God, knock for God, recognize God’s authority over our own. Can we anticipate joyfully with and for all our neighbors for whom God came? God is much greater than turbulence and violence. God is much greater than our failings and our successes; giving them to God allows us to receive God within our own “roof”.

Action

Take stock of the parts of you most resistant to the Will, the Authority of God. Is it insensitivity to another’s wishes? Is it the need to always be right? Is it a dependence on financial status? Emptiness caused when a loved one hurt you? A physical disability which blocks what you would like to achieve?

Pray that you might be emptied in order to be filled with the promise, shelter and protection of God’s own glory.