In today’s gospel, John describes a scene closely related to the first reading. Jesus visits a place near the Sheep Gate that is called Bethesda.   Many people had come to bathe there in the hope of being cured of their afflictions.   As Jesus walked among those gathered there, he paused next to one man who could not walk.  Jesus said to him, “Stand up, take your mat and walk.” Jesus did not offer to lower the man into the pool; he personally cured the man.
In the first reading, Ezekiel is brought by an angel down the river from the Temple, going deeper and deeper, from wading to floating until “on the banks, on both sides, of the river, there will grow all kinds of trees for food.”  From a trickle to a torrent: this inspires awe, especially in an arid desert.
Contemplate this scene for a moment; compare it with our own experience of rivers and lakes; remember the sensations that we associate with water. It is refreshing, life-giving and supporting, it has an ability to buoy us, especially if we relax, let ourselves float, give ourselves over to the flowing water.  If we fight against it, we may sink more readily. Better to relax, to be carried along, and eventually, get to safety on the shore where the lush fruit-laden trees and teeming fish in the living water seem to be a reward for our journey.
God is subtle at times, He allows us to experience his goodness and grace, as if we were only wading, ankle deep. When we are used to His presence, aware of his greatness and power, we are then ever more rapidly carried, moved toward Him.  Our lives are enriched; His goodness and life-giving love surround us. Relax! Rise and realize that all good things come from God.
Jesus lowers us into the pool – like the man in the Gospel – slowly immersing us into the water (reference to Baptism!), into the waters of everyday life to be healed personally by Him – healing us through our own experiences of life.
Stay safe: be healthy, happy and holy!
Fr. Brian