Proclaiming, Curing, Praying

We might think we are busy, but a glimpse of today's Gospel from Luke 5:12-16 describes a busy day in the life of Jesus:  "The report about him spread all the more, and great crowds assembled to listen to him and to be cured of their ailments... " ( Lk 5:16).  We know how crowded clinics or doctor's offices are, or how a powerful speaker can fill a lecture hall or auditorium, so we can see these crowds in our imagination.  Jesus, evidently, remains tranquil, speaks "with authority", takes compassion on the many sick, even lepers, like the one in this passage, who sees Jesus, prostrates himself, and begs for a cure, when usually lepers remained withdrawn from others.  It would seem Jesus rarely had a moment's peace and was exposed to contagious diseases, but never flinched.  The secret?  "....he would withdraw to deserted places to pray."  (Lk 5:16)  Peace, quiet, communication with his Father, these enabled him to maintain a balance which he rarely lost, save for the two times he cleansed the temple, showing his strength and anger unashamedly in defense of the sacredness of his Father's house.  The lesson for us is to find those "desert places" and pray. Jesus, help me to follow your example and not lose myself in excuses.  If you did it, so can I.
Bro. Rene