Carmelite homily for Monday, February 10, 2020 – Lectionary 329 (Mark 6:53-56)
In the autobiography, Story of a Soul, of Saint Therese, she talks about one of the sisters who displeased her in everything – her ways, her manner, her speech – everything displeased her. And Therese wanted to run whenever this sister approached. But, she writes, “I am resolved to do for this sister what I would do for the person I love the most.” So every time this sister came in the room, or when they were at recreation, or working together, Therese, who really wanted to run away, would smile instead. And it brought healing and brought peace, and joy, to the whole convent. I think that’s the invitation of today’s Gospel. Yes, Jesus is healing the multitudes and we say, how could we do that? I think all it takes is a simple smile to bring healing to the multitudes.