The Cure of Simon’s Mother-in-Law

Today's Reflections

 

The Cure of Simon’s Mother-in-Law

Mk 1:29-39

²⁹On leaving the synagogue [Jesus] entered the house of Simon and Andrew with James and John. ³⁰Simon’s mother-in-law lay sick with a fever. They immediately told him about her. ³¹He approached, grasped her hand, and helped her up. Then the fever left her and she waited on them.

³²When it was evening, after sunset, they brought to him all who were ill or possessed by demons. ³³The whole town was gathered at the door. ³⁴He cured many who were sick with various diseases, and he drove out many demons, not permitting them to speak because they knew him.

³⁵Rising very early before dawn, he left and went off to a deserted place, where he prayed. ³⁶Simon and those who were with him pursued him ³⁷and on finding him said, “Everyone is looking for you.” ³⁸He told them, “Let us go on to the nearby villages that I may preach there also. For this purpose have I come.” ³⁹So he went into their synagogues, preaching and driving out demons throughout the whole of Galilee.

Reflection:
 

He helped her up. Then the fever left her. Jesus visits the home of Simon and Andrew who have left everything to follow Jesus. Told that Simon’s mother-in-law lies sick with a fever, he heals her. She immediately waits on them, attending to the needs of Jesus and his disciples. She thanks Jesus for the healing by using her recovered strength for renewed service.

Besides Simon’s mother-in-law, Jesus cures people who are sick with various diseases and drives out many demons. At the beginning of his public ministry, Jesus announces the time of fulfillment, with God’s kingdom now at hand (Mk 1:14-15). His miracles of healing and exorcism now validate his proclamation.

Jesus takes care of those whom we love. As we sacrifice our loved ones for God’s service, as we give up our comfort so we can serve Jesus undividedly and dedicate ourselves to his mission, Jesus attends to our worries and concerns about our families.

Think of the blessings you have received.How do you respond to God’s generosity?