Deeper meaning
From today’s Scripture: “A woman was there who for 18 years had been crippled by a spirit; she was bent over, completely incapable of standing erect. When Jesus saw her, he called to her and said, ‘Woman, you are set free of your infirmity.’”—Lk 13:11-12
Since I’ve worked in finance, I’ve always noticed when the scriptures mention a specific number. Why was the Gospel writer so specific? Instead of saying “for many years,” he is specific about the 18 years. As I’ve learned, in the Jewish tradition numbers have meanings beyond just the numeric.
One explanation of the number is that 18 is symbolic of bondage. Two enemies of Israel held them in bondage for 18 years before Yahweh freed them. In today’s Gospel, we have another example of Jesus, in his divine role, freeing a woman from her 18 years of bondage to Satan.
Let us pray: Lord, as we read Scripture, help us look beyond the obvious to find the deeper meaning of your word.
Today’s author is Mike Schneider, Glenmary’s former Treasurer and Chief Administrator.
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