Tuesday of the Fourth Week in Ordinary Time
“O my son Absalom! My son, my son Absalom!” Today’s readings deal with losing a child, one of the hardest tragedies a person can endure. David’s son Absalom dies in the midst of war, and Jesus encounters a Synagogue official whose daughter is on the verge of death. This is a part of the “mystery of evil,” that the innocent can die in our mortal world. There are no easy answers for this type of suffering.
For all those parents who have lost children, we offer our prayers. You are not alone. Jesus understood the meaning of losing a loved one. He himself would give his life as God’s only son. Jesus Himself is the best answer for all suffering. He gave His life for us. And in today’s Gospel, He doesn’t let death deter him. He first heals the women who had suffered from hemorrhages. Then He goes to the home and says to the girl, “I say to you, arise.” Then she stands up and lives! Jesus gives life to this child. Jesus sows life in the midst of death, resolution in the face of the worst kind of loss. Thanks be to God who gives life, even in the worst of tragedies! Amen.
Reflection by Br. Matthew Marie, OSB
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections