The readings this weekend challenge us all to be the person God is calling us to be – namely one of his disciples. This means we must recognise and accept the presence of God in our lives, realise that we are unworthy but at the same time to be willing to let his hands mould us to follow him. The readings tell us, as he told Isaiah, St. Paul and St. Peter. We must remember that God has his own reasons and thinking when he chooses those who are to be his Disciples. We can ask ourselves if we are firmly committed to be a disciple and, if not, resolve to change and be positive about how we do it. St. Paul, as described in the second reading, is a good example of changing ones thoughts and actions and what the result could be. The Responsorial Psalm is a wonderful example of a prayer of gratitude. The Second Vatican Council teaches that we are all called to Christ’s ministry by virtue of our Baptism into Jesus Christ.
On a different theme his Holiness Pope Francis has reminded us that Friday, February 11, is to be a World Day of the Sick, as instituted by St. John Paul II thirty years ago, with the theme of a quotation from St. Luke: “Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful”. This theme makes us first turn our gaze towards God, who is “rich in mercy” (Eph 2:4); he always watches over his children with a father’s love, even when they turn away from him. Mercy is God’s name par excellence; mercy, understood not as an occasional sentimental feeling but as an ever-present and active force, expresses God’s very nature. It combines strength and tenderness. For this reason, we can say with wonder and gratitude that God’s mercy embraces both fatherhood and motherhood (cf. Is 49:15). God cares for us with the strength of a father and the tenderness of a mother; he unceasingly desires to give us new life in the Holy Spirit.
He finishes with: Dear brothers and sisters, to the intercession of Mary, Health of the Infirm, I entrust all the sick and their families. United with Christ, who bears the pain of the world, may they find meaning, consolation and trust. I pray for healthcare workers everywhere, that, rich in mercy, they may offer patients, together with suitable care, their fraternal closeness.
To all I cordially impart my Apostolic Blessing. Francis.