When Jesus saw her, he called to her and said,
Woman, you are set free of your infirmity.
He laid his hands on her,
and she at once stood up straight and glorified God.
— Luke 13:12-13
The peace of the Lord be with you. Today’s reading from Luke says volumes about Jesus and the mercy of God. Jesus recognizes the torment and suffering of one of those he was called to save and rescue. Even though it is the Sabbath, he recognizes that this is something that needs to be dealt with right away. Once again the officials criticize him for doing this on the Sabbath. He points out to them that there are times when there are things that need to be done — you wouldn’t neglect one of your animals on the Sabbath.
This passage also reflects that Jesus is trying to let them know that he is the Son of God by these actions of healing. He also makes a link between this action and the salvation handed down through Abraham and those sent before him. Throughout all of history God has never stopped reaching out to us, offering us his love, offering us his healing, and inviting us to the freedom of his way of life.
May the grace of God allow us to set our priorities properly, hear his voice, and share his love with those around us. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.