Daily Catholic Lectio. Fri, 10 January ’25. Will and power

Daily Catholic Lectio

Fri, 10 January ‘25

Friday after the Epiphany

1 John 5:5-13. Luke 5:12-16

Will and Power

Today’s gospel reading presents a powerful encounter between Jesus and a leper – a moment brimming with grace, transformation, and deep spiritual insight. The leper, a man ostracized by society, approaches Jesus with a desperate plea, “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.” Jesus responds not just with words but with action, saying, “I will; be clean,” and reaches out to touch him, defying social norms. This story reveals the profound truths about the human condition, the power of will, and the necessity of remaining connected to God.

Threefold Alienation in the Life of the Leper

(a) Alienation from God: In the Jewish context, leprosy was considered a sign of sin and divine disfavour. The leper was deemed unclean, unable to participate in worship or temple rituals. This exclusion signified a painful separation from God and the community of faith.

(b) Alienation from Society: Leprosy brought not only physical suffering but also social isolation. The afflicted were forced to live outside the community, marginalized and stigmatized, cut off from family, friends, and society’s fabric.

(c) Alienation from Self: The leper’s condition likely caused immense inner turmoil—shame, rejection, and a sense of worthlessness. The disease stripped them of their identity and dignity, leaving them broken in spirit.

Yet, in his encounter with Jesus, the leper transcends these alienations, finding healing and restoration.

Three Life Lessons

(a) Seize the Opportunity to Encounter God: The leper’s bold approach to Jesus despite societal taboos is a testament to his faith and determination. He recognizes the opportunity to encounter the Divine and takes action.

Life Lesson: In our spiritual journey, we must seize every opportunity to encounter God. Prayer, sacraments, and moments of grace require our active participation. Like the leper, we must step forward in faith to be heard and transformed.

(b) With Will Comes Power, With Desire Comes Energy: The leper’s words – “If you will, you can make me clean” – reflect his trust in Jesus’ power. Jesus’ response shows the inseparable link between divine will and divine power. Where there is a will, there is transformative energy.

Life Lesson: In our lives, when we align our will with God’s will, we tap into His infinite power. A heart filled with desire for goodness unleashes the energy to achieve it. God’s grace meets us when we trust in His ability to transform our brokenness.

(c) Jesus’ Priority: Staying Connected with God: After performing the miracle, Jesus retreats to a solitary place to pray. This act underscores the centrality of prayer in His ministry. Despite the demands of the crowd, He never compromises on communion with the Father.

Life Lesson: We, too, need to prioritize our spiritual connection with God amidst life’s busyness. Prayer isn’t optional—it’s our lifeline, keeping us grounded and attuned to God’s will.

The story of the leper in Luke 5:12-16 is a powerful reminder of God’s willingness and power to heal us when we approach Him in faith. It calls us to overcome our alienations and find restoration in Him.

Let us learn from the leper’s courage to encounter Jesus, trust in the transformative power of God’s will, and emulate Christ’s example of prioritizing prayer. As we align our will with God’s, we will discover the strength and grace to live renewed and purposeful lives.

Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi

Archdiocese of Madurai

Missionary of Mercy