FEBRUARY 11TH 2024, 6TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME ( YEAR B) 

Our first reading, about the plight of lepers in ancient Israel, prepares for the gospel. Lepers were excluded from religious practices and forced to live on the margin of society. Their sickness was considered a punishment for sin, while health was a sign of holiness. The priest judged the condition of the sufferer, who confessed his sin; healing signified conversion. As in other incidents, Jesus rejects society's taboos and compassionately reaches out to touch the leper. With this touch and his reassuring word, he cures and purifies. The man cannot keep quiet, and his story draws crowds. The Good News is spreading; but are crowds coming out of faith or to see miracles? St. Paul’s advice, on another topic, is timely. In Corinth, some Christians were more open to the world and to change; others were easily scandalized. Sometimes the exercise of our freedom should give way to concern for others’ spiritual welfare. We give glory to God when we pattern our behavior after that of Christ crucified and his apostles.

Sunday Mass Book for Canada