2 Kings 5:14-17
Luke 17: 11-19
by Sister Sally Ann Brickner
Within Israelite society purity laws carried great significance. Persons who had certain physical diseases, such as leprosy, were considered unclean and were segregated from the community. They lacked wholeness and therefore were ritually impure.
Our culture also possesses standards of physical (and moral) cleanliness and those who do not meet the standards are often shunned. They are not welcome in certain establishments. They may be turned down for employment. They are considered "unfit."
Having been cleansed of his leprosy, Naaman returned to Elisha with profound gratitude. Likewise, the Samaritan who was healed of leprosy returned to Jesus with humble thanksgiving. Having been cleansed through God's mercy, these individuals could resume normal relationships within their community.
At times we also are in need of physical or moral healing. If we seek God's boundless mercy, God makes us whole again. Like Naaman and the Samaritan, we are able to reintegrate joyfully with our community.
Chapters 31 & 32, US Catholic Catechism for Adults
Do Not Steal; Act
Justly.
Tell The Truth.
by Sister Laura Zelten
Reflecting on the Seventh and Eighth Commandments, the most essential factor in making good decisions is to follow Christ, to put Christ first in all moral decisions. St. Francis de Sales put it this way, "One of the most excellent intentions that we can possibly have in all our actions is to do them because our Lord did them."
Study Guide for the U.S. Catholic Catechism