Diocese of Lincoln discusses faith and physical healing in modern times
The Diocese of Lincoln has reflected on the role of faith in physical healing, drawing from the Gospel account in Matthew where Jesus asks two blind men, “Do you believe that I can do this?” (Matthew 9:28). The message explores how belief in Christ’s ability to heal remains relevant today.
A priest from the diocese shared personal experiences over his ten years of ministry, noting a shift in his own understanding. Initially, he believed physical healing was rare and reserved for extraordinary circumstances. However, he described witnessing several cases where individuals experienced unexpected recoveries after prayer, including a mother with terminal brain cancer and a newborn with severe health complications.
He stated, “Jesus heals, and He is still healing today!” The priest emphasized that while physical healing is significant, the Church teaches that union with God and freedom from sin are the greatest forms of healing. This spiritual transformation comes through proclaiming the Gospel.
He explained that the Greek word used in Scripture for power is related to “dynamite,” illustrating how the Gospel can effect change. According to him, physical healing serves as evidence of Christ’s identity and signals the arrival of God’s kingdom on earth.
The message also highlighted that ailments do not exist in heaven and that physical healing points toward this reality. He said God desires to heal both spiritually and physically.
Quoting Pope Benedict XVI, he added: “Salvation is being healed every day by God.” He encouraged believers to continue seeking grace to answer Jesus’ question with conviction.
Further resources on this topic include an interview titled “Healing the Whole Person” Q&A with Dr. Bob Schuchts and an article called Identity through the lens of healing by Fr. Ryan Kaup.
