The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/011826.cfm

Before healing the man’s body, Jesus heals his soul. The paralytic seeks physical restoration, but Christ addresses a greater paralysis: sin. Sin paralyzes the soul and separates us from God, the source of life. “Who can forgive sins but God alone?” the scribes challenge (Mk 2:7, NABRE). Indeed, only God forgives, yet they fail to see the Divine in front of them. Jesus, God incarnate, reveals His authority not only by perceiving hearts but by forgiving sins and restoring the man.

This moment prefigures the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Just as the man’s friends interceded for him, Christ extends forgiveness through the Church and her priests. Fr. Chris emphasizes that when a priest declares, “I absolve you from your sins,” it is Christ acting in the confessional (John 20:23, NABRE). Spiritual healing comes first, for sin’s weight is greater than any physical ailment.

Christ’s mercy invites us to rise from the mat of our sinfulness, just as the paralytic stood and walked. Repentance is not mere sorrow—it is transformation, a turning toward God and away from sin. Through infant baptism, God forgives the helpless on behalf of faithful parents and godparents, just as He healed the helpless paralytic by the faith of others. Intercessory prayer is essential; faith shared in community moves God’s grace into our lives.

We are called to participate actively: pray for one another, confess, and rise renewed. Christ’s forgiveness restores, strengthens, and sends forth. The mat is left behind; the soul walks free. By addressing the deepest paralysis, Jesus demonstrates the power of His mercy and the Church’s mission to bring all sinners to life.

To explore the sacraments and God’s work through intercession, visit Understanding the Sacraments (ShopMercy.org).