February 14, 2021 Sunday of the 6th Week in Ordinary Time-B

Leviticus13:1-2, 44-46

Psalm 32

1 Corinthians 10:31—11:1

Mark 1:40-45

I said, “I confess my faults to the Lord,” and you took away the guilt of my sin.  Ps. 32:5

Jesus remained outside in deserted places… Mk. 1:45

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. I believe you can make me clean. Dear Jesus, I believe that you wish to remove that which separates me from our Father. So touch me with your redeeming mercy. I confess to you and beg you to 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. I also pray for all who are separated from family and country.  Amen.