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Mark 1:29-39​
Jesus Heals at Simon’s House

After the holy havoc in the synagogue, a public place, Jesus and the four fishermen go to Andrew and Simon’s home, a private place. The NRSV translation of the bible says “house,” but many others say, “home.” I like the use of home because it is more personal. A house is a place to live, but a home is the foundation of our lives. Our homes are where we go at the end of the day to rest, to exhale, and to feel safe. Our homes may be where we spend the most time. Our homes are where we can be most vulnerable and allow our true selves and feelings to be released. Our homes are where we learn and grow with our families. Our homes hold memories of our lives and give a sense of belonging.
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Simon’s mother-in-law is sick at his home, and they tell Jesus about her. He goes to her, takes her hand, and lifts her up. Jesus goes to her in this place of rest, vulnerability, and belonging. Jesus gives her what she needs. Healing, yes, but healing in such a way that is intimate and private. Simon’s house becomes a home where Christ dwells, bringing healing and restoration.

My childhood experience of faith was compartmentalized. Church was where we went to live out our faith, but I don’t recall ever talking about our faith at home. We lived one way at church, and one way at home. When I invited Jesus to dwell in my home as an adult, the compartments dissolved. Different parts of myself integrated, and I felt whole. We don’t live as perfectly at home, in the private space, as we do in the public space, but Christ’s grace is given for all spaces. Once we invite Christ into our homes, as well as our churches, healing occurs. We find our sense of belonging in Christ. Our homes become sacred places too.

Then, Jesus will invite us to open our doors of our homes for others to receive this same grace. We open the doors to our hearts to help others find healing and belonging. The compassion we received from Jesus is passed on to those who need compassion. This scripture tells us that this is what Jesus came to do, and we are invited to go with Jesus to the public spaces and the private spaces. No place is off limits or too far gone for Christ to enter and bring healing. Christ comes to us in these places, takes our hand, and lifts us up. Where do you need Christ to enter and bring healing? Where do you need Christ to take your hand and lift you up?

Reflection Question:
Is Jesus present in your home? How open are you to welcome Jesus into your home?
How can you create a sacred space in the places where you dwell?
Where do you find belonging? Who in your life needs to find belonging? How can you help?
Is there a place in your life where you need Christ to enter to bring healing?
 
Action: Send a card to someone who is sick or visit with them. Pray for them as a way to show your love and compassion.