An Unexpected Haven

I am writing this reflection while travelling on a coach from Lourdes to Barcelona.

It was spiritually uplifting to visit Lourdes; to drink from the miracle spring, to celebrate the Eucharist at the spot where Mother Mary appeared to St Bernadette, to take the holy bath & to join in the candlelight procession.

But what struck me most is this little haven that is free from the massive crowds characteristic of this Marian sanctuary:

It was here in the confessional that l encountered God's great mercy and love; it is here where the soul can be healed from its spiritual paralysis!

I wondered where were the multitudes... Many wanted to be healed physically & be given blessings but how many are willing to repent & give themselves back to God?

"Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective." James 5:16

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