30th Week in Ordinary Time (B) : Monday 25th October 2021

The gospel passage today highlights the hypocrisy that may exist among religious leaders. Feeling compassion for the woman possessed by a spirit for eighteen years, Jesus lays his hands on her and immediately heals her. The synagogue official fails to see the “true” miracle happening right before his eyes, that is, the inbreaking of the kingdom, as the crippled woman is freed from her suffering. The official is caught up with keeping the Law but does not recognise the work of the Spirit.

This incident describes an example of hypocritical blindness that religious leaders can show. The Pharisees, for instance, allowed animals to be taken care of on the sabbath. So why do they complain against the healing of the woman on the sabbath, which is an extraordinary gift bestowed on her by God? The official’s reaction to the woman’s healing is also troubling because instead of confronting the miracle worker, he vents his anger on the people. The wonders worked by Jesus causes different responses among the religious leaders and the ordinary people. The leaders are filled with confusion, while the people are filled with joy.

In his letter to the Romans, Paul points out that those who live in Christ receive the Spirit who brings new life and vitality that the Mosaic Law does not. In other words, those who live by the Law only are bound by the Law, but those who are guided by the Spirit find peace and joy. Therefore, the scripture readings challenge us to ask ourselves whether we live by the Law or the Spirit.

Lord, help me live by Your Spirit.