Introduction
This Rosary reflection contains the text of several Gospel verses that focus on the rest and recovery that Jesus speaks to his disciples and the people he healed.
The Gospel Account
When distress, illness and adversity visit us, we need the mental, physical, emotional and spiritual space to rest and recover while we heal.
The Rest and Recover Words of Jesus Reflection are drawn from Gospel moments where Jesus works to restore health of body, mind, and spirit. You can read the full stories behind these verses in the appropriate Gospel account.
The Five Decades
When you pray the five decades of this Rosary Reflection, use these five moments from Mary’s prayer in the Gospel. Read the Gospel verses for each decade and let the words sink in as you pray that decade.
First Decade: Come Away and Rest (Mark 6:31)
Jesus said to his disciples, “Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” People were coming and going in such great numbers, and they had no opportunity even to eat.
Second Decade: Find Rest with Jesus (Matthew 11:28-30)
“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart, and you will find rest for yourselves.”
Third Decade: Go in Peace (Luke 8:47-48)
When the woman realized that she had not escaped notice, she came forward trembling. Falling down before Jesus, she explained in the presence of all of the people why she had touched him and how she had been healed immediately. He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
Fourth Decade: Restored to Family (Luke 7:13-15)
When the Lord saw her, he was moved with pity for her and said to her, “Do not weep.” He stepped forward and touched the coffin; at this the bearers halted, and he said, “Young man, I tell you, arise!” The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother.
Fifth Decade: Following Jesus (Mark 10:51-52)
Jesus said to him in reply, “What do you want me to do for you?” The blind man replied to him, “Master, I want to see.” Jesus told him, “Go on your way; your faith has saved you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed him on the way.
What to Remember
These Gospel verses reflect the care and concern of Jesus for those who follow him, and those he healed. Jesus’ work was that of restoration, making people whole again with God, themselves, and others.
As a follower of Jesus, and a child of God, you have the privilege of hearing Jesus speak to you with words of rest and recovery. There are times in your life when you need to stop, listen, and rest. Pray the rosary and ask Mary to help you find balance and perspective during and after those intense periods of life.
What to Pray For
- For the grace to step back and retreat to rest and recover when life’s adversities push against you.
- For all those afflicted with chronic and severe illness and conditions to rest and recover in body, mind and spirit.
- For all who are spiritual and retreat directors, that they may help others rest and recover.
- For all those in healing occupations, that they may be renewed in their work of service.
Feel free to pray the rosary using these Scripture verses for a deeper sense of rest and recovery.
* Scripture passages are from the United Conference of Catholic Bishops website, https://usccb.org/bibleJesus is Reviled (Luke 23:39)“Jesus, Remember Me” (Luke 23:42)
