From today’s Scripture: “Christ took away our infirmities and bore our diseases.”—Alleluia verse

The meditation of our Alleluia precedes Mark’s account of two miracles of Jesus: the healing of the woman who suffered from hemorrhages for 12 years and the raising of Jairus’ 12-year-old daughter from the dead. The number 12 is a significant one in the Judeo-Christian tradition. It represents completion, perfect order, and God’s authority and power.

The woman was condemned to “uncleanness” for 12 years, barring her from participating in her faith community. Her reaching out to touch the hem of Jesus’ garment was daring though she believed that he had the power to heal her without contaminating himself. Jairus’ daughter, a young adolescent, would now be allowed to grow into full womanhood.

Let us pray: Jesus, heal me of my uncleanness. Heal me from those things that separate me from you and your will. Strengthen my faith so that I too may be cured of my afflictions.

Today’s author is Dr. Denise Collado, who is a multilingual caseworker for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Sarasota, Florida, and former world languages teacher for 44 years. Since 2017, Denise has made quilts for Glenmary’s annual fundraiser and for special missioner friends.

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