When COVID-19 first emerged in early 2020, the way some people were treated echoed, at least in one painful respect, how lepers were treated in Jesus’ time. Social isolation was an everyday reality as people were separated from family and friends, avoided, and sometimes made to feel like a threat simply because they were vulnerable. Some of you lost family members, friends, colleagues, or other individuals that they knew. Today’s gospel story was a reminder of that experience.
After His baptism (an event held last Sunday), Jesus began proclaiming the Word of God, the Word of love, a message that brought healing, hope, and real change. Today’s gospel (Mark 1:40-45) tells us that even his fruitful ministry required moments of withdrawal, as crowds constantly pressed in on him, and he chose quiet places to rest, pray, and renew his strength. In the same way, we may also need seasons of purposeful withdrawal, which we may call retreat times, not out of fear, but for renewal, so we can reflect, re-center, and ensure we are still walking on the right path.
As we begin this year, consider when you will plan a spiritual retreat, whether mid-year or year’s end is fine, for a day or even a week, and use it to reflect honestly on your life and ask God for the grace to remain focused on your higher goals with peace, discipline, and joy. We pray that we may never again be separated from each other by sickness or any epidemic. Amen!
