9 February, Friday — Being advocates

Friday of Week 5 in Ordinary Time

1 Kgs 11:29-32,12:19
Mk 7:31-37

… they brought him a deaf man…

In today’s Gospel, we read how a deaf man was brought before our Lord, who was asked to heal him. The passage refers to the group of people as simply “they”; there is no description of who comprises this group, or how and why they came to be associated with this deaf man.

In all likelihood, this group must have comprised the deaf man’s closest family and friends, who must have spared no effort to locate Jesus and to bring the man before him. This group must have been close advocates and supporters of this man, who literally did not have his own voice.

On deeper reflection, this event is an encouragement for us to be the same — to act for those around us, who cannot act for themselves. Too often, my thoughts are on myself or my environment, instead of those who lurk on the fringes. My awareness gets piqued when I see articles or videos featured on social media highlighting causes or campaigns requiring assistance. Another period when I am sensitive to such needs is during Lent. Often, however, it seems to end up with me helping with financial contributions or visiting a home, for a day of ‘service’.

But is this good enough? I feel these bouts of ‘service’ act merely as a tick on a checklist of to-do items, instead of bring more profound and authentic. How do we become true advocates and supporters of those in need? It does not have to be for the ‘under-privileged’ (in the strictest sense of the word). It may be those around us who are struggling in their lives mentally, spiritually, or emotionally.

This may be easier said than done. It takes a lot of effort to go beyond oneself. It requires others to make themselves vulnerable so that they can receive help. In this light, those needing assistance will likely be the least open to help. In my mind, I believe what we can do is to be emotionally open and sensitive to those most challenged around us.

Brothers and sisters, let us pray to our Lord to allow ourselves to be led by the Holy Spirit, to avail ourselves to those among us who are in need, and to answer the promptings.

(Today’s OXYGEN by Paul Wee)

Prayer: Father God, help us to be open to Your promptings to the needs of those around us.

Thanksgiving: Thank you Lord, for Your love, and for sending support and love in the form of our friends and family. We are grateful for all You provide for us.