February 11, 2024, Sunday of the 6th Week in Ordinary Time-B

Leviticus 13:1-2, 44-46

Psalm 32

1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1

Mark 1:40-45

“He shall dwell apart, making his abode outside the camp.” Lev 13: 46

 “If you wish, you can make me clean.”  Mk. 1:40

Lord, again you are moved with pity over human suffering and impressed with simple faith.  So strong was your concern for this man with leprosy that you touched the untouchable.  Did you know that the result of this healing was going to force you to remain isolated outside of society?  As this man joyfully rejoined his family and community, you had to remain where he was, in “deserted places”.   Lord, you took on our sin so we can be free.  You include all people of faith, no matter who they are, in your gift of salvation.  Dear Jesus, I believe that you wish to remove that which separates me from our Father.  So touch me with your redeeming mercy.  Forgive all that which keeps me from living the abundant life you won for me on the cross.  You gave this man his life back.  Cleanse me from the leprosy of sin and hopelessness it causes.  I pray today for the grace and the faith to proclaim how you have removed my death sentence and invited me to a new life in your kingdom.  Amen.