Woman, who had not lost hope for 18 Years

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season : 30th Week : Monday*

*Gospel : Lk 13:10-17*

*First Reading : Eph 4:32–5:8*

*Woman, who had not lost hope for 18 Years*

*1) The Situation of the Woman*

Woman was suffering from 18 years 

She was crippled by an evil Spirit

She was bent over and was unable to stand erect

So she was not able to walk properly and was unable to function in a normal way 

*2) She was in the Synagogue*

The Gospel makes it very clear that Jesus was teaching in the Synagogue and Jesus saw this woman in the synagogue

It means the woman had come to the synagogue with the intention of getting rid of her infirmity

*3) The Hope of the Woman*

Even after suffering for 18 years she had not lost her hope in getting better 

For 18 years she might have consulted many doctors for her health 

But all was in vain. Even then she had not lost her hope

*4) It is Jesus who sees her*

Unlike in other incidents, here we see that Jesus sees the woman 

Usually in other incidents we see that those who want to experience the healing power, some how will come before the lord and request for a healing 

Here the woman is carefully listening to Jesus, and Jesus sees her and comes for her rescue

*5) Hope does not disappoint us*

These are the words from st Paul's letter to the Romans 5:5

These words became true in the life of this woman 

Her hope didn't disappoint her, but helped her to witness a great miracle 

In fact hope does not disappoint us. 

*6) What about my Hope*

How strong is my Hope? 

When something goes wrong, how about my Hope? 

Do I still cling on to the Lord or do I grumble and doubt in the providence of the Lord? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*