January 13, 2017 Friday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time-A

Hebrews 4:1-5, 11

Psalm 78

Mark 2:1-12

When Jesus saw their faith…  Mark 2:5

Lord, the decision by the four men to bring their afflicted friend to you came from their faith in you.  That faith lay invisible in their hearts but became visible when they picked up their friend and carried him to the house and lowered him through the roof.  Their faith was expressed in action.  Their faith in your goodness and healing power wasn’t just a hope or an internal belief, it was revealed to all by their deeds.  Lord, you see my faith and I hope it pleases you.  But as James said “faith without works is dead”.  These men were so confident you would heal their friend they let no obstacle stand in their way.  May my faith be as strong as theirs.  Lord, help me to see the faith of my family and friends in what they do.  Reveal my faith in times of trouble.  Let no obstacles like fear or doubt stand in my way.  Your power to heal became visible when the man walked away.  Shine you healing power and grace into my heart today, Jesus, and reveal my faith.  Amen.