I recently had a pair of custom leg braces made. They are meant to correct several deficiencies resulting from Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. The orthotist made a cast of my legs, holding my feet in a corrected position as the casting material cured. The resulting braces hold both my current form (or deform) and the correction my feet can tolerate. When I tried my new braces on for the first time, I realized walking in them would take some time. There are weak muscles that need to be strengthened and shortened ligaments that need to be lengthened. It will take patience and practice, but I hope they will correct my gait and help me walk if I persist.

Remember that, in God’s service, we need fidelity and generosity, but not strength. God is the strength! (Saint Peter Julian Eymard)

In the story of the Prodigal Son, we see how the same father’s mercy looks different for each of his sons. For the son who was returning, the father created a soft place to receive him, with a feast, a ring, and a robe. But a more substantial correction was needed for the one turning away. God’s mercy is custom-made for each one of us. Considering our weaknesses and capabilities, he consistently, gently, and firmly corrects us. Like an orthotist casting a mold, he holds together the reality of our weakness with the promise of our growth.

The Lord is kind and merciful. (Responsorial Psalm)

When we receive Communion, the Bread of Life casts a mold of himself in our souls. Whatever needs corrections or support, God’s mercy transforms us, a little bit at a time, into the perfect image of his Son.

Let us pray:

O God, who grant us by glorious healing remedies while still on earth to be partakers of the things of heaven, guide us, we pray, through this present life and bring us to that light in which you dwell. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen. (From Collect)