Has there ever been a time when you were picked last for the team, whether on the playground, P.E., or gym class? I remember being on both sides, being picked and picking others to join. I much more preferred being chosen last than having to be in the situation to choose a classmate last because someone had to be in that position at some point, and it was often an agonizing situation to be in to have to make those determinations. In our Gospel reading today, Jesus comes upon a man who has experienced an even worse situation.
The man who is in need of healing has been coming to the pool of Bethesda for quite some time, thirty-eight years in fact. Apparently, there is a limited time to get into the waters to experience the healing properties that it affords, for each time the water stirs, while the man moves to get closer to and enter the water, “someone else gets down there before” him. This is worse than getting picked last, as he doesn’t in a sense even make the team!
But with Jesus the last shall become first. Key ingredients are belief, faith, and a willingness to be healed. Jesus does not impose, even in the case of healing, Jesus invites: he asks the sick man, “Do you want to be well?” When the man in need of healing explains the limitations he has experienced in the past regarding getting to the pool, Jesus does not hesitate. Jesus commands him to rise, pick up his mat and walk. The man is no longer the one picked over, the one ignored, the one unseen. The sick man encounters Jesus and is healed by his word.
Jesus meets us in the same way that he met the sick man. Jesus meets us in our need, where we are, no matter our station in life. He does not leave us on the outside looking in, he does not leave us with wondering if we are loved, and he not only comes to us to encounter us, but to empower us to be about mission. Jesus gives meaning and purpose to our life. Each and everyone of us are a gift from God being made in his image and likeness, and we have a gift to contribute to others and are given a unique offer to help make the kingdom of God a reality.
I invite you to enter a place of silence and stillness, without and within. Breathe in deep and exhale a few times, then close your eyes. See your self as you are in your present seated position, breathing, experiencing your shoulders relaxing, and just being still. Then notice Jesus walking toward you as he did with the man at the pool of Bethesda. Does Jesus remain standing, does he sit beside you, or kneel before you? As he assumes whatever posture comes to mind for you, allow your thoughts to reflect on what you need from Jesus, or does Jesus ask you a question? What does he ask or what does he say?
Jesus is here for you, right here and right now. There are no boundaries, no limitations, only those you impose on your self. Share with Jesus what you need. You are no longer misunderstood, left out, or picked last. Jesus is present. Embrace the moment.
Photo: Me and my pitchback.
Link for the Mass readings for Tuesday, March 13, 2018:
Spiritual Stepping Stones