Today, the Lord teaches and heals at the same time. Today we see the Lord teaching those who considered themselves very wise in those days: the Pharisees and the teachers of the law. Sometimes, we may think that, because of the century in which we live or the education we have received, there is little left for us to learn. This non-supernatural way of thinking often leads us to try to reshape God’s ways to fit our own, rather than the other way around.

In the attitude of those who sought healing for their friend, we see human effort directed toward a truly good goal: that the sick man might walk. But this is not enough. Our Lord wants to bring about a complete healing in us. And so, He begins with the very purpose for which He came into this world, the very meaning of His holy name: to save man from his sins.

The deepest root of all my afflictions is always my sin: "As for you, your sins are forgiven" (Lk 5:20). Too often, our prayers or our concerns are purely material, but the Lord knows what is truly best for us. Just as in those days, doctors' offices are filled with the sick. But, like those men, we run the risk of failing to seek out, with equal diligence, the place where we can be truly and fully restored: an encounter with the Lord in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

The fundamental point in all times for the believer is the sincere encounter with the merciful Jesus Christ. He, who is rich in mercy, reminds us especially today that during this Advent season we must not neglect the forgiveness He so generously bestows. If necessary, let us remove the obstacles—the tiles—that keep us from seeing Him. I, too, need to remove the tiles of my prejudices, my comforts, my preoccupations, and my mistrust—which block “the view past the roof tiles.”