DAILY PRAYER

“They went off, preaching the need of repentance. They expelled many demons, anointed the sick with oil, and worked many cures.” (Mk 6:12-13)

The sacraments are those signs established by Jesus by which we receive grace. Forgiveness of sin comes to us through a priest in Confession. Divine adoption and the forgiveness of original sin come to us through Baptism.

Another of the seven sacraments is the Anointing of the Sick. The Apostles anointed the sick with oil when Jesus sent them to preach repentance from sin. He gave them the power to cure the sick and expel demons. 

St. James writes: “Is anyone among you suffering? He should pray.  Is anyone in good spirits? He should sing praise.  Is anyone among you sick? He should summon the presbyters of the church, and they should pray over him and anoint (him) with oil in the name of the Lord, and the prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will raise him. If he has committed any sins, he will be forgiven.”  (Jas 5:13-15)

The Church has continued the practice, trusting in God’s curative power over body, mind, and soul.

Many have the mistaken notion that the sacrament is our official “sendoff” from this world.  Some do not call the priest because it might frighten the infirmed.  Many wait to call the priest after death!   They do not understand that this sacrament is for restoring the health of mind, body, or soul and the forgiveness of sin.  It is a sacrament for the living, not the dead. 

Reflection and commentary

Psalm 31:19 “How great is your goodness, Lord, stored up for those who fear you.”

OUR PRAYER CONTINUES