Thursday 14th January 2021
1st Week in Ordinary Time
Heb. 3:7-14; Ps. 94(95):6-7,8-9,10-11; Mk. 1:40-45 (Ps Wk I)

As we contemplate this scene, we realize that other people were almost certainly present but not
mentioned by Mark: the disciples and the crowds. For some reason that we are not told, the leper had great confidence in Jesus. This confidence gave him the courage to kneel down before Jesus in a very public act of great respect.

The leper did not directly ask for a cure, but phrased his hope in such a way that he appealed to the generous love, compassion and care of Jesus: “If you will…” Superficially, such an expression might appear to manifest doubt, implying “I do not know if you are willing to cure me or not.” Mark, however, presents the story in such a way that it is a parable of great confidence.

Lepers were outcasts, untouchables, and the fact that this man had enough courage to come among people, where he was not welcome, and kneel down in public before Jesus, demonstrates great courage and confidence. When we pray, we must do so with great courage and confidence, even though we will usually never have to demonstrate either confidence or courage as the leper did.

Lord Jesus, grant us, both as a community and as individuals, to pray with confidence and courage, leaving all things to Your generous love and mercy.