The WORD in other words (2009) by Father Dudz Lero SVD – Verbum House, UP Los Banos Laguna
Saturday 26th Week in Ordinary Time
One evening, one of my professors at UPLB asked me to visit her cancer-stricken father-in-law in the hospital and administer the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick. Early the next morning, she called me, excitedly asking whether I had the gift of healing. According to her, her father-in-law had been bedridden for several months. Yet only a few hours after receiving the anointing, he stood up, asked for a glass of milk, and even conversed with his family.
I sensed her joy, but I am not sure she sensed my bewilderment.
Today’s Gospel forms part of the conclusion of Jesus’ sending of the seventy-two disciples (Luke 10:17-24). They had returned from their missionary journey filled with excitement and remarkable stories of success. They reported to Jesus: “Lord, even the demons are subject to us because of your name” (Luke 10:17). Yet Jesus gently reminded them that their accomplishments were not the result of their own power but of God’s grace working through them.
Likewise, my professor’s father-in-law survived only a few more weeks before peacefully returning to the Father. But it was not I who granted him those additional days. The healing, consolation, and strength he received came from God. The priest is merely an instrument; the true healer is Christ Himself.
This is an important lesson not only for priests, religious, and those engaged in Church ministry but for every Christian. We often take pride in our achievements, forgetting that every good thing ultimately comes from God. Whether we are teachers, parents, professionals, leaders, or missionaries, our success depends on His grace.
Jesus teaches this truth clearly:
“I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing” (John 15:5).
The disciples were effective because they were united with Christ. Their preaching, healing, and ministry flowed from His power, not their own abilities. St. Paul understood this when he wrote:
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).
Prayer
Lord Jesus, teach me humility. Remind me that every good thing I do comes from Your grace. When I succeed, keep me grateful. When I fail, keep me trusting. May I never forget that apart from You I can do nothing, but with You all things become possible. Amen.
