For which is easier, to say, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Rise and walk'? But that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins"—he then said to the paralytic—"Rise, take up your bed and go home." And he rose and went home.
Anointing heals. That's the effect. It heals the soul. It heals either this mortal body or prepares us for the ultimate healing of the body in the Resurrection on the Last Day. It heals the Body of Christ as we intercede for the sick one. It strengthens the sick one to share in the cross of Christ. It helps the sick one be a sign of Christ's grace of healing and mercy to the Church. Today, thank God for the graces of the sacrament of Anointing.
Mark P. Shea is a popular Catholic writer and speaker. The author of numerous books, his most recent work is The Work of Mercy (Servant) and The Heart of Catholic Prayer (Our Sunday Visitor). Mark contributes numerous articles to many magazines, including his popular column “Connecting the Dots” for the National Catholic Register. Mark is known nationally for his one minute “Words of Encouragement” on Catholic radio. He also maintains the Catholic and Enjoying It blog and regularly blogs for National Catholic Register. He lives in Washington state with his wife, Janet, and their four sons.
