| PITH Press |
| July 2009 Readings |
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July 12, 2009, XV SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Read: Am. 7: 12-15 Eph. 1: 3-14 Mk. 6: 7-13 "They went off, preaching the need of repentance. They expelled many demons, anointed the sick with oil, and worked many cures." (Mk. 6:12-13)The Sacraments are signs established by Jesus that impart great grace. The forgiveness of sin comes to us by the priest in Confession. Divine adoption and inclusion comes to us through Baptism. The Apostles anointed the sick with oil when Jesus sent them to preach repentance from sin. He bestowed upon them the power to cure the sick and expel demons. "Is anyone among you suffering? He should pray. Is anyone in good spirits? He should sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? He should summon the presbyters of the church; and they should pray over him and anoint (him) with oil in the name of the Lord, and the prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will raise him up. If he has committed any sins, he will be forgiven." (Jms 5:13-15)The Church has continued the practice, exercising God’s curative power over body, mind and soul. Many of us have mistakenly acted as though the Sacrament was only to be used as the official "send off" from this world to the dying (Viaticum) and sometimes there are those who are reluctant to call the priest ‘cause it might scare grandma’! -- so they call the priest after she’s dead!This sacrament is for restoration of health of mind, body or soul and the forgiveness of sin. It is a sacrament for the living, not the dead. Reflection and commentary Psalm 31: "How great is your goodness, Lord, stored up for those who fear you." |
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