Reflection for Monday, Jan. 3
Captured on Lynn's trip to the Holy Land
Capernaum, “the Town of Jesus,” the sign stated as we entered the gate to the excavated ruins.
We walked amongst the ruins of the Great Synagogue, built upon the more ancient Synagogue where Jesus prayed, taught, and performed miracles. We could see and touch the building stones of the old Synagogue. With my hand resting upon one of those old, blackened stones, I recalled so many of our familiar stories of healing. The energy of the healing presence of Jesus was palpable.
Down the road, and across the lane is the excavated house of St. Peter, where Jesus lived while in Capernaum. That took a moment to sink in. This is where Jesus ate, slept, lived, loved, and laughed. As stated in today’s gospel, people from all of Galilee and beyond brought loved ones for healing. Here, Jesus cured many of disease, illness, possession, and other distresses. This humble home of St. Peter is where men brought their friend on a litter and removed the roof! Such faith and hope.
Some things are inexplicable, mysterious even. Standing in front of St. Peter’s home, looking at the very doorway my Lord walked through, the eternal energy of love, compassion, healing, and hope washed over and through me. In a quiet corner, I wept. Now in difficult times, I remember that energy, that Love, and I know my Lord is near.
Lynn Giles