JESUS TOUCHING FOR HEALING
Throughout his ministry, Jesus often healed people through touch, demonstrating his compassion and divine power. He could heal with a word, but he frequently chose to touch those he healed, showcasing a deep, personal connection.
Jesus’ Healing Touch
When society avoided lepers, Jesus touched them as part of his healing ministry: “And Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him, saying, ‘I will; be clean.’ And immediately his leprosy was cleansed” (Mt 8:3).
Crowds sought to touch Jesus, believing in the power that emanated from him: “Everyone in the crowd sought to touch him because power came forth from him and healed them all” (Lk 6:19).
In Gennesaret, people brought their sick to Jesus, hoping to touch even the fringe of his cloak: “And they implored him that they might only touch the fringe of his garment; and as many as touched it were made well” (Mt 14:35-36).
Jesus healed two blind men by touching their eyes: “Then he touched their eyes, saying, ‘According to your faith be it done to you.’ And their eyes were opened” (Mt 9:29-30).
A woman suffering from hemorrhages for twelve years touched Jesus’ cloak and was healed: “Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, ‘Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.’ And instantly the woman was made well” (Mt 9:22).
Additional Healing Miracles
Jesus healed Peter’s mother-in-law by touching her hand: “He touched her hand, and the fever left her, and she rose and began to serve him” (Mt 8:15).
He healed a man who was deaf and had a speech impediment by touching his ears and tongue: “And taking him aside from the crowd privately, he put his fingers into his ears, and after spitting touched his tongue. And looking up to heaven, he sighed and said to him, ‘Ephphatha,’ that is, ‘Be opened.’ And his ears were opened, his tongue was released, and he spoke plainly” (Mk 7:33-35).
Catholic Teachings on Jesus’ Healing Touch
The Catholic Church teaches that Jesus’ healing miracles are signs of the Kingdom of God and his divine authority. These miracles are not merely historical events but symbolize the spiritual healing and salvation Jesus offers. The Catechism of the Catholic Church explains, “The signs worked by Jesus attest that the Father has sent him. They invite belief in him. To those who turn to him in faith, he grants what they ask” (CCC 548).
REFLECTION
As followers of Christ, we are called to emulate his compassion and willingness to help those in need. Jesus’ healing touch is a profound expression of his love and mercy. We are invited to be instruments of God’s healing through acts of kindness, listening, and offering support to those who suffer.
The healing miracles of Jesus also highlight the importance of faith. Those who were healed often demonstrated great faith, believing in Jesus’ power. As Jesus told the woman who touched his cloak, “Your faith has made you well” (Mt 9:22). This underscores that faith is crucial in experiencing God’s grace and healing.
In conclusion, Jesus’ healing touch reveals his divine compassion and power. It serves as a model for us to follow, encouraging us to be agents of healing and love in a world that desperately needs it.