Thursday, Week 1 in Ordinary Time
First Reading
1 Samuel 4:1–11
In those days, Israel went out to battle against the Philistines and suffered a great defeat. The elders brought the ark of the covenant into the camp, believing God’s presence would save them. Yet Israel was routed, and the ark was captured, showing that sacred objects cannot substitute for faithful hearts.
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 44:10–11, 14–15, 24–25
Redeem us, Lord, because of your mercy.
The psalm expresses distress and a longing for deliverance, crying out for God’s mercy amid suffering.
Gospel
Mark 1:40–45
A man with leprosy came to Jesus, pleading, “If you will, you can make me clean.” Jesus, moved with pity, touched him and said, “I am willing. Be clean.” Immediately he was healed, and Jesus sent him to offer cleansing rites to the priest, though the man then proclaimed the miracle widely.
Reflection
Today’s readings show two contrasting approaches to brokenness and to God.
Israel’s effort to bring the ark into the battle seems outwardly faithful, but it reflects a heart trying to control God’s power. When we reduce the presence of God to a symbol or an advantage, we risk missing the heart of relationship: trust.
In contrast, the leper comes with humility and honesty. He names his need, not his entitlement. Jesus’ response is compassion first — touching, healing, restoring — before any commission or instruction. His mercy breaks social barriers and brings life back into community.
The leper’s faith is not about knowing all the answers; it is about offering his trust to One who does. His healing begins with honesty: acknowledging need and longing for mercy. In a world that often demands strength and certainty, this Gospel invites us to the courage of vulnerability — bringing our real selves before Christ and trusting his mercy to meet us there.
A moment of pause
Where might you be holding back your honest need from God today — and what would it mean to bring that need before him with trust?
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