2009 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: Day 6

Christians face to face with disease and suffering


On Day 6 we remember in prayer all those who suffer and those who serve them. The psalms help us to see that language of crying out to God in pain or in anger can be an expression of a deep and faithful relationship with God. The merciful response of Christians to the plight of those who suffer is a sign of the kingdom. Together Christian churches can make a difference in helping to obtain for the sick the support they need, both material and spiritual.


Scripture

II Kings 20:1-6, Remember me, O Lord!
Psalm 22:1-11,Why have you forsaken me?
James 5:13-15, The prayer of faith will save the sick.
Mark 10:46-52, Jesus asked: What do you want me to do for you?


Meditation

Common to all our still separated churches is the awareness of our Lord's compassion for the sick. Christians have always followed his example, by healing the sick and caring not only for the souls but also the bodies of God's children.

The deep rooted faith of Hezekiah supports him through sickness. In a time of sorrow, he finds words to remind God of his grace. Yes, those who are suffering might even use words from the Bible to cry out or struggle with God: Why have you forsaken me? When an honest relationship with God is well established, grounded in language of faithfulness and thankfulness in good times, it creates space also for a language to express sorrow, pain or anger in prayer when necessary.

The sick are subjects of faith, as the disciples must learn in the story of the gospel of Mark. The disciples who wanted to prevent the blind man getting near Jesus have to become the messengers of the Lord's caring response: Come, he is calling you.

It is only when the disciples bring the sick man to Jesus that they come to understand what Jesus wants. A healing community can grow when the sick experience the presence of God through a mutual relationship with their sisters and brothers in Christ.


Prayer

God, listen to people when they cry to you in sickness and pain .May the healthy thank you and serve the sick with loving hearts and open hands. God, let all of us live in your grace and providence, becoming a truly healing community and praising you together. Amen.



Graymoor Ecumenical and Interreligious Institute