BY: LYNETTE BALLARD, M.A., M.A.H.C.M.
SENIOR DIRECTOR, LEARNING INTEGRATION, CATHOLIC HEALTH ASSOCIATION, ST. LOUIS
CALL TO PRAYER
LEADER: As we gather, let us put ourselves in a quiet space to be aware of God's presence with us here, now and always.
Sometimes the experience of delivering quality health care is so complex and chaotic, so crowded and busy, that in our march forward toward certain goals we fail to see those people who are left by the wayside. By following Jesus' example we may serve as a model for others. We can advocate for the ones who by their minority status, ethnic identity, educational level, income, or disability receive worse health care than others. In our ministry of Catholic health care, we have the ability to deliver care in such a way as to inspire others to truly see the ones Jesus holds most precious, the ones who are not treated justly.
READING Luke 18:35-43
READER: A reading from the Gospel of Luke.
As Jesus approached Jericho a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging, and hearing a crowd going by, he inquired what was happening. They told him, "Jesus of Nazareth is passing by." He shouted, "Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me!" The people walking in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent, but he kept calling out all the more, "Son of David, have pity on me!" Then Jesus stopped and ordered that he be brought to him; and when he came near, Jesus asked him, "What do you want me to do for you?" He replied, "Lord, please let me see." Jesus told him, "Have sight; your faith has saved you." The man immediately received his sight and followed him, giving glory to God. When they saw this, all the people gave praise to God.
REFLECTION
LEADER: How many are there, the people who sit by the side of the road calling out, "Have pity on me"? How many times does someone tell them to sit and be silent as help passes by? How often have we been blind to the disparity in care experienced by those on the margins, those who sit at the side of the road? Who in your community, like the blind man, sits beside the road crying out for mercy and justice?
Pause for reflection.
MUSIC
Suggested: "There's a Wideness in God's Mercy," by Frederick W. Faber
LEADER: Let us pray together.
ALL: God, our Father, help us not to be blind to the needs of those on the margins. Lord Jesus, our healer, again and again your love and forgiveness changes us and challenges us. Restore our sight. Open our eyes to people in our own time and place who are passed by, even as they cry for equity and justice. Luke's Gospel tells us "When they saw this, all the people gave praise to God." Lord, help us to be the change that changes the world. We pray in your holy name. Amen.
Copyright © 2012 by the Catholic Health Association of the United States
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