Meditation on the Marginalized

by Food For Thought on February 10, 2012 · 2 comments

First Reading: 1 Kg 11:29-32, 12:19
Psalm: Ps 81:10-11ab, 12-13, 14-15
Gospel: Mk 7:31-37

Perhaps we know or have met people who have physical handicaps or
impediments. These are those who are visually and/or hearing
impaired, or those having speech impediments. We read about men and
women, sometimes celebrities, who have anorexia or eating
disorders. We may also know of “special” children or those who have
learning disadvantages. The question is: how much have we done to
help these people?

Unfortunately even in this new millennium, many of us cringe at the
sight of the disabled and some of us avoid them as much as
possible. The physically and mentally challenged remain a
marginalized portion of our society despite all the awareness and
publicity regarding their plight. Perhaps this attitude is due to
ignorance or apathy towards their plight. Or perhaps, some of us
just do not care.

Jesus ministered to the marginalized, the sick, the disabled, and
the outcasts like the lepers. He traveled from town to town,
village to village, healing many of them. Within our own
communities, how many do we know today who imitate Christ in this
manner?

The joy of the healed deaf man must have been great to see. It is a
joy to see disabled people who, despite their handicaps, keep their
faith strongly with God. These disabled brothers and sisters are
excellent examples for us to admire and emulate.

By Food For Thought

  • Llkazlas

    Their faith is so simple and uncomplicated.  The disabled, especially the mentally handicapped are truly the children of God.  They do not expect too much from you and are happy just to be in your company.  Their love for God and for you is honest, clear and unadulterated.  Many things are out of their control and they have learned patience and acceptance because of it.  The mentally handicapped often live in the present ”moment”.  They accept their limitations and entrust their lives to God.  It is such a simple trust in God, but it always catches me off guard.  The simplicity and purity of their faith is a clear beacon of light for the rest of us to see just how much we have complicated, and muddied our own lives.  They of all people, bring me back to sanity, back to reality, that we must become like little children in order to enter the kingdom of God.

  • Rrietmann

    Just yesterday, I posted a picture of my 17-year old daughter, Sara, on Facebook.  Sara has Down Syndrome and is part of a Unified Cheer Team at her high school.  The picture showed the cheerleaders in uniform cheering at a game. My Facebook Post said:  During the cheer, I was in the stands and Sara “mouthed”  “I love you, Mom”.  I thought how many 17 year old cheerleaders would do that.  It touched my heart, as she does in different ways, daily.