Evil Spirit which makes the woman completely incapable of standing erect - How to understand it

Gospel Thoughts

*Ordinary Season : 30th Week - Monday*

*GOSPEL - Lk 13:10-17*

*First Reading - Rom 8:12-17*

*Evil Spirit which makes the woman completely incapable of standing erect - How to understand it*

*1) The woman with Evil spirit for 18 years*

The Gospel makes it clear that the woman was suffering from 18 years, because of the evil spirit. 

As a result she was bent over, which made her to stand erect.

The Gospel also tells us that, she was completely incapable to standing erect because of this evil spirit

*2) The effects of the Evil spirit*

The woman was physically bent over and physically incapable of standing erect. 

This physical gesture also speaks about the other areas of her life 

So she was also spiritually bent over and incapable of standing erect 

In other words, the evil spirit made her to bend for the evil things and made her incapable of standing erect in Good things 

*3) The deeper meaning of standing erect*

Its a sign of confidence

Its a sign of courage 

Its a sign of victory

Its a sign of challenging someone 

Its a sign of determination

Its a sign of truthfulness

Its a sign of righteousness

Its a sign of integrity of the person 

Its a sign of leadership 

Its a sign of clear vision 

So when a person is incapable of standing erect, he/she can't practice these above values 

So when the evil spirit makes a person incapable of standing erect, this is what implied in this gesture 

*4) The woman stood straight after Jesus healed her*

The Gospel also shows that, Jesus heals the woman. 

As soon as the evil spirit leaves her, she was able to stand erect. This means it was this spirit which controlled her and made her incapable of standing straight 

Once she was delivered from the spirit, she stood straight and praised God. 

As long as the evil spirit controlled her she was incapable to praising God 

*5) Am I able to stand erect?*

This is a real challenge to all of us. 

Standing erect is a continuous process. It can't be achieved within a short period of time 

Standing erect needs a strong determination and the power of prayer 

We need to stand stright, in our Christian life, in our faith life, in our convictions, in our service, sacrifice, forgiveness, humility, generosity and sharing. 

Am I able to stand straight in these things? 

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*