You are a priest for ever, in the line of Melchizedek. — Psalm 110:4b

Mass Readings: Hebrews 7:1-3/Mark 3:1-6 

Hands Outstretched 

In today’s Gospel, the man with a withered hand is cured on the Sabbath, setting off a firestorm of criticism from the Pharisees. We hear that Jesus looked around “with anger” and was grieved at their “hardness of heart.” 

Would Jesus look at us the same way today? Have we hardened our hearts against those who think differently from us, look differently from us, believe differently from us? Are we able to differentiate between the letter of the law and the heart of it, reacting with compassion toward those who may go outside the typical parameters of our day? St. Benedict taught that we should welcome every stranger — not just those who are part of our family, club, or philosophical mindset — as if we are welcoming Christ himself. That’s our challenge. 

Prayer: Jesus, soften my heart and open my eyes to Your light within everyone I meet.