« Illness urges us to seek the face of God, and the face of God is often found in the face of our suffering brothers and sisters. » Inspired by the teachings of Pope Francis. This year, we celebrate the 34th World Day of the Sick. Pope Leo XIV has written an encouraging message for the sick, for those who care for them, and for those responsible for health. How can one care if there are no sick people? Or conversely, how can one be cared for if there is no one to provide care? Illness is indispensable in human life. It is neither a sin nor a punishment. Indeed, as stated in the Rule of Life of the Religious of the Assumption: « Sick sisters are a grace for their community and for the whole Church. In their own flesh, they complete what is lacking in the passion of Christ for the salvation of the world ». (R.V. 58 §1). This means that being ill is a grace when viewed with a positive and spiritual outlook. Therefore, it calls us to accept our limits and personal fragilities. To be ready to welcome it in order to receive grace. As soon as a person accepts their illness, they are not far from healing; they already allow themselves to be cared for. Where there are sick people, there are also those who care for them. Truly, both complement each other. In life we encounter different types of illness: physical or spiritual...
The state of illness is a place where God reveals His work; that is why we speak of grace, of miracles, and so forth. It is a matter of deep faith. Each year in Lourdes, this place remains a Sanctuary of hope where faith and prayer enable believers to find strength and healing. For our part, towards the sick, we are called to bring encouragement, support, and commitment to care. It is in this same spirit that the Pope emphasized in his message for the World Day of the Sick. On the occasion of this 34th World Day of the Sick, he invites us to contemplate the parable of the Good Samaritan in Lk 10:25–37. This parable holds a central place for those who bear responsibility for caring. Let us suppose that the sick person has fully entrusted themselves to divine grace in order to attain better health. Often this reflects our own lives: how many of those who suffer or are fragile truly have the opportunity to receive proper care? It is rare! Let us act like the Good Samaritan, who goes beyond what he is and what he has. The Pope places emphasis on compassion and mercy. He says: « Compassion, in fact, is not only a feeling, but it is expressed through concrete gestures and shared commitment, especially towards the sick ». He continues: from this perspective, caring for the sick and the most fragile is not an optional gesture, but one of the clearest signs of fidelity to the Gospel. Grace is poured out upon those who are ready to welcome it, whether they are the sick or those who care for them.
Let us therefore entrust ourselves to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Lourdes, that she may grant us her comfort and mercy. Mary, in the hope of physical and spiritual healing, intercede with your Son for our sick, our loved ones, and all who suffer, that they may regain their health.