Healing Touch

"If I but touch his clothes, I shall be cured." Mk 5:28

There is a wonderful story about the Chafetz Chaim, a renowned 19th century rabbi, who welcomed people from all over the world to his home in Poland. Many who came felt no urgency to speak with him since they encountered the transforming power of God simply by being in his presence.

One rich young fellow, however, expecting the Rabbi's home to have lovely furniture, was startled by the simplicity he encountered and blurted out, "Rabbi, where is your furniture?" Whether the Rabbi smiled or was annoyed we do not know, but he responded, "Where is yours?" "I'm only a visitor," the young man answered. "So am I," said the Rabbi. There should be little doubt, when we hear this story, that the young man was healed in a way he could never have anticipated.

The woman in today's gospel, who had spent everything on doctors seeking a cure for her hemoorhaging, came to Rabbi Jesus with a very different perspective and attitude. Hiding among the crowds, but believing that Jesus was powerful, she touched the hem of his garment, hoping that even this simple gesture would cure her. Realizing she was healed, and no doubt wanting to slip away quietly, she hears Jesus wonder aloud about who touched him. Full of fear, she acknowledges her "unclean" act only to find the Lord's compassion more powerful than her "sin." "Daughter," he says, "Your faith has saved you."

The lesson is clean and clear. Healing comes when we tell the truth.

Today, acknowledge your need and ask for the Lord's help.

Have you been healed by telling the truth?