In Search of A Healer

Let us start with a short but powerful statement: The world is in need of healing. Jesus brings that healing.

There it is! Simple as that. I always love to start a reflection with the most basic understanding of our faith.

But as always, things can be complicated.

There is a world in need of healing due to sin.

“Sin sets itself against God’s love for us and turns our hearts away from it” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 1849).

A world turned away, against God’s love, is a world burdened with tiredness and loneliness; each one of us seeking that love for which we were made.

The problem of evil in the world is answered by a God who is present, by a God who heals.

How does Jesus bring healing to our world?

As the Catechism of the Catholic Church states,

“He (Jesus) has come to heal the whole man, soul and body” (CCC, no. 1503).

He heals our bodies with miracles.

Yes, even the miracles of science, providing cures against ailments, and wisdom for medical professionals.

Every day, to wake up can be seen as a miracle.

He also can heal us outside of medical research; unexplained, and a reminder of God’s awesome power.

He also heals us in the Sacrament of the Sick, allowing us to be

“strengthened despite our illness” (CCC, no. 1511).

But most importantly, Jesus is the healer of our soul.

We can find this healing in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, where our souls are healed from sin.

The Sacrament of the Sick is also there to help beyond the physical;

“The first grace of this sacrament is one of strengthening, peace, and courage to overcome the difficulties that go with the condition of serious illness or the frailty of old age” (CCC, no. 1520).

The Mission of the Church

Jesus is here to heal this dark world. His Church is here to continue his mission.

In a few days, we will be with our Lord in his suffering and Passion. In darkness, we will weep. Then, we will wait with anticipation for his resurrection.

Let us continue to trust in his healing power, and let us be instruments of his love and healing as we enter the Easter season.

Daniel Quintero is a newlywed husband, writer, and avid karaoke singer. He currently attends Prince of Peace Catholic Church where he volunteers in the lector ministry and with faith formation. His favorite motto: “Awkwardness does not exist.”