from the Companion Director’s Team
“And wherever he went, into villages or cities or farms, they begged him that they might touch even the fringe of his cloak; and all who touched it were healed” (Mark 6:56).
We continue our exploration of the life of Jesus in our Lenten series focused on the Paschal Mystery. A main theme that runs through Jesus’ ministry is healing. Multiple times throughout Scripture we hear of people reaching out to touch Jesus’ garment in their pursuit of a sense of wholeness.
It is an unusual person that does not bear the scars of struggles, difficulties, and loss. Our Prince of Peace continues to offer himself to us to mend all that ails us whether it be physical, emotional, or spiritual. He extends his gentle touch to us in the Eucharist and in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. He offers his healing presence as we rest in him in the silence of our hearts. We meet him in the Word, in community, in the wonders of nature, in each other, in our encounters with the “least among us,” and around the table as we break bread with family or fellow travelers on the road of life.
Filled with Jesus’ healing presence, we as Precious Blood people extend this gift to others. As we travel around the country meeting both companions and incorporated members, we learn of all the different ways that Precious Blood people are bringing the healing presence of Christ to others. Some are serving as mentors for at-risk youth while others are advocating for the dignity of the human person. Many are proclaiming the Word or bringing the Eucharist to the home-bound. Some are ministering to those behind bars or imprisoned in such circumstances as poverty or loneliness. Some are serving those in their own homes as they are raising families or caring for grandchildren, elderly parents, or an ill spouse. Some are called to serve in their own communities while others go beyond to lift up God’s little ones. The ways to bring divine healing to others are countless. Let us open our hearts to the healing touch of Jesus during this Lenten season and become a healing presence for others.
