Gospel Reflections for June 28 2015
The woman in today’s Gospel had every right to be angry, cynical, and mad.
She had a painful illness for over 12 years, causing humiliating and dangerous bleeding. This also made her ritually unclean in ancient Judaism and she was a constant outcast among family and neighbors. Moreover, she spends all her money on doctors and treatments that never work. Today she would be calling lawyers!
Despite all that she does never loses hope, and in today’s Gospel that hope finally is fulfilled. She recognizes in Jesus something different, something better. She presses ahead to meet him through a jostling crowd of people who are also trying to meet Jesus. She does so knowing the crowd despises her for her illness. This is an amazing woman!
Somehow, Jesus senses her presence and turns to greet her. Jesus always recognizes a heart filled with hope. Her long held dream is finally realized and she is healed.
This woman is the patron saint for everyone today. Perhaps you have felt in difficult times as if you were in her situation, or perhaps you know someone else who is facing a tough challenge. This is the right Gospel to read.
Despite everything going wrong for so many years she resolutely keeps faith and hope alive in her heart. I am sure others thought she was crazy to keep trying. I am sure they said that it was too late for any healing and that “nothing can be done” for you. Twelve years is a long time. She had every right to agree and give up.
No situation is ever “too late” for Our Lord. Even after a little child dies in the second story in this Gospel Jesus affirms that no situation is ever “too late.” He beautifully restores this young girl to her family. This is a Gospel with two happy endings!
Both stories remind us to stay hopeful and faithful. Both the woman and the girl’s family must have wanted healing earlier. God’s time is often not ours, but His time is always better in the long run. God knows what He is doing. Staying faithful always comes to a happier ending.
God Bless!
Fr. Dave
Love your precious words Father Dave “Jesus always recognizes a heart filled with hope!!!”Just as the woman and child were cured miraculously, we will be cured if we have hope, love and the faith!!!! Jesus will touch us with His healing love!!!We love our precious faith and we love you for giving us Jesus who fills our hearts with love!!! We know you are enjoying beautiful Israel where Jesus loved and lived!!!Have a safe trip back to us!!!
With love, Franca and Dick
I am looking forward already to next year’s trip. It is one of the highlights of the year for me.
Fr. Dave,
Wonderful reflection; my wife Elaine and her Gospel hula group have a special dance for this woman’s passage.
Too, if your still in the Holy Land and see Amer Shehadeh, please extend our fondest regards and that we continue to pray for him, his family, and our fellow Christians residing there.
Shalom, Joe Guarrasi
I did not see Amer, but I was honored to be able to meet for an hour with Bishop Shomali. He will be the new Latin Patriarch in the next few months. Very friendly and outgoing person.
Several years ago I had a situation that needed “healing”. I asked God to help me. I told him what I wanted and when I wanted it. Guess what? In His time –not mine–I received His answer and it was better than what I had asked. What’s that saying? Let go and let God. I still have to work on this but I’m trying. Thank you for your weekly message.
Carol Grzybek
I am glad that your prayers were answered, and in the way that God designed just for you.
Healing is a wonderful thing. I have had two open heart surgeries for mitral valve replacement. Especially this last time, last November, I experienced a remarkably fast recovery. I attribute that to an enormous number of prayers from a lot of people. I am getting older, and I know that my body is wearing out, but it is a very nice experience to feel better. Spiritual healing is similarly a source of happiness. I guess I had a spiritual healing when I joined the Church.
Thanks for sharing your story of healing. Prayer does have an enormous effect on health.
On another note, your Faith, Hope, Love logo is not only stylish, but says it all. Very nice.
Thank you!
Thank you Fr. Dave for reminding us. It’s all in God’s good time!
Have a safe trip home.
God Bless.
Rita
I just returned home yesterday from a fantastic trip. I am already looking forward to next year!
I very much look forward to your Gospel reflections each week and realize the importance of your statement this week that staying faithful always comes to a happier end. Many thanks for your great help to us on our spiritual journey.
You are very welcome! I am glad you enjoy my articles.