In the gospel reading, Jesus encounters a woman who is bent over. Jesus laid His hands on her and she was healed. She could stand up straight.There is an image here of the whole of Jesus’ ministry. He works to release people from whatever burden is oppressing them, and he enables them to stand straight again. We carry some burden which makes it difficult for us to stand upright and face the world head on. We feel ourselves being pulled down. In such times, the Lord can reach out to us as he reached out to that woman.
This can also be an image of grace working in us. When the power of God works in us, we are able to stand up again, leaving behind whatever burdens us. We could come out of the shadows of darkness and failures and be filled with new confidence and dignity.
✍️ CB