The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/011626.cfm Father Chris Alar, MIC, draws us into the dramatic Gospel scene of the paralytic lowered before Jesus and reveals why this passage speaks so clearly of the Sacraments of the Church. What Jesus responds to first is not the man’s condition, but faith — specifically, the faith of those carrying him. “When Jesus saw their faith” (Mk 2:5; NABRE), He forgives sins before He heals the body.

Turn to any page of St. Faustina's Diary, and you'll find spiritual gems. Like this one:When I see that the burden is beyond my strength, I do not consider or analyze it or probe into it, but I run like a child to the Heart of Jesus and say … “You can do all things.” … I keep silent, because I know that Jesus Himself will intervene in the matter, and … instead of tormenting myself, I use that time to love Him. (1033)

Are you ever afraid for your own physical safety? Turn to any page of St. Faustina's Diary, and you'll find spiritual gems. Like this one:When I heard how dangerous it was to be at the gate these days because of revolutionary disturbances and how many evil people have a hatred for convents, I went in and had a talk with the Lord and asked Him to so arrange it that no evil person would dare come to the gate. Then I heard these words: My daughter, the moment you went to the gate I set a Cherub over it to guard it. Be at peace. (1271)