Wednesday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time
(Genesis 41:55-57.42:5-7a.17-24a; Matthew 10:1-7)
A recent newspaper report linked improvement of memory with
a healthier diet and exercise. This news
will surprise few people. But it may
help one appreciate today’s gospel connecting unclean spirits to disease.
“Unclean spirits” create
the sinful tendencies of eating “junk food” and avoiding exertion. They justify unhealthy practices with the
lies that they won’t hurt one or that one deserves more slack. People inspired
by the Holy Spirit will reject such distortions of reality. They will take care of themselves physically and
encourage others to do the same
Our bodies are just as much part of who we are as our
souls. We should take care of them by rejecting
the voices inside urging us to eat more and to eschew exercise. We should also thank God for whatever health
we physical strength at God’s disposal.
