June, 2009 – “Christ can perform miracles through you”
June, 2009 – “Christ can perform miracles through you”
One of the
stories I like best in the Sacred Scriptures is from Acts 2: 1-10. The scene is
the temple where Jews come in the afternoon to worship. At the Temple’s gate is
a beggar who regularly asks for coins. As Peter and John approach, he expected
to receive coins from them. To his
surprise, Peter said, “I have neither silver nor gold to offer you, but what I
do have I will give to you. In the name
of Jesus Christ the Nazarean, walk.”
Then Peter took him by the hand and raised him up. Immediately the
beggar’s feet and ankles became strong.
He jumped up and stood for a moment and then began to walk about and
jumped around in the Temple praising God.
What Jesus then did, He continues to
do through you and me. He relies upon
us, his followers. After the Resurrection, Jesus is never again seen performing
a miracle. His followers carry on his work. The implication is clear; He wants
us to do his work. Do you really believe
that Christ can perform miracles through you?
If you are doubtful about this, ask the Lord for the grace to really
believe.
You can be Christ for somebody in SDC
through this healing ministry. For example, I will offer you a brief prayer
ritual style, which you can use as a vehicle in your ministry.: Stand or sit by the person you are praying
for; imagine yourself surrounded by Christ’s healing power. As you breathe in, you take in that healing
power. As you exhale, you channel that
power to the person you are praying for.
With your hand, trace the sign of the cross on their forehead and say
the words: “Through the power of Jesus Christ, may you be healed.” Conclude
with the words “Go in peace If for some reason the person you are praying over
is not there physically, just imagine the person’s presence and perform the
ritual.
So the stories
in Scripture are not just stories limited to Christ’s time. They inspire us through time to carry on
Christ’s work. Pray for the grace to really believe that.
Peace
and joy always,
Father
Vince
Fr. Vince O'Brien, S.J. is the
Chaplain for SDC. He can be
contacted at: Manresa Hall,
261 City Line Avenue, Merion Station, PA 19066 or (610) 660-1406.