Healing of Peter’s Mother-in-law: An Example of Intercessory Prayer by the Faithful

Healing of Peter’s Mother-in-law: An Example of Intercessory Prayer by the Faithful

Today’s Gospel reading is like a bridge reading.

We hear from St. Luke, Jesus left the synagogue, and we will soon be on the Sea of Galilee with Peter. Today’s reading, we are in Simon Peter’s house.

Jesus knew Simon before today’s reading. Jesus is in the home of one that He knows. This is informative! We know that Jesus visits the homes of those that know Him . . . our homes as well.

Upon entering the home, Jesus meets illness. Simon’s mother-in-law is ill. She is sick, bedridden and her health is in danger. She is incapable of doing anything other than lying in bed.

Note, we don’t hear that Simon’s mother is sick, so Jesus goes there. That was not why He went. Of course, Jesus knows Simon’s mother is sick. But He was pleased to go to the house, because it was Simon’s house.

The mother-in-law did not cry out for healing. The Church does not know if she even knew Jesus was there. What we do know is people with growing faith . . . those in Simon’s household . . . interceded on behalf of the mother-in-law. These faithful know they can turn to Him not only for themselves, but on behalf of others. An early example of the faithful performing intercessory prayers.

Hear more about Intercessory Prayers and how that should impact our spiritual life. Listen to this Meditation Media.