Sickness is part and parcel of human life. We get sick because of our genetic heritage; bacteria and viruses can bring serious sickness and disorder in our bodies. Indeed good health is a great gift from God.
Sickness, though difficult, provides opportunities for others to help and serve the sick. Mothers and families provide incessantly to restore sick members to health. Hospitals, doctors and nurses provide professional care for the more seriously ill.
In earlier times, as in the time of Jesus, many saw illness as a punishment from God. Lepers were isolated from society to avoid contamination and spread of leprosy.
In the first reading the prophet Isaiah tells us that among the signs and gifts of the coming of the Messiah will be to restore sight to the blind, hearing to the deaf and mute, even life to the dead and the preaching of the Good News to the poor. Messianic times will be time for order, peace and beauty.