Embracing God’s Word in Times of Vulnerability!
On this 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time, in the first reading, we encounter Job
and his story of loss, danger and profound suffering. Job’s loss of his wealth,
property, family, and even his health, raises profound questions. How can a
righteous person like him endure such terrible affliction? Isn’t it true that Job’s
story often mirrors our own experiences? Don’t we sometimes feel that God is
punishing us? If, like Job, we were to cry out to God, how might He respond?
Today’s Gospel holds the key to understanding God’s response to our
experiences of loss and danger. We are told that many who were ill or
possessed by demons were brought to Jesus, and he healed those who were
sick and cast out numerous demons. Does this imply that God always responds
to our suffering by easing our pain? Isn’t this also the essence of Job’s story?
A clue to unraveling this mystery lies in what Jesus does at the end of the
Gospel reading. He says, “Let us go on to the nearby villages that I may preach
there also.” While it was important for Jesus to cast out demons and heal the
sick, he prioritized preaching the good news of God’s kingdom. Jesus recognized
that proclaiming hope, redemption, and the coming of God’s kingdom held even
greater significance.
This insight urges us to read and study God’s word. God’s response to our
experiences of loss and danger extends beyond merely easing our suffering. He
invites us to seek solace, purpose, and hope in His teachings and promises.
When we find ourselves possessed by demons of loneliness, depression,
anxiety, or despair, we must remember that God’s response may not always
involve instant relief from our pain. Instead, He calls us to find refuge in His
words, to discover comfort in His presence, and to share His message of love
and redemption with others.
The story of Job serves as a potent reminder that our suffering does not
define us. Like Job, we may question the purpose of our struggles, but we must
remain steadfast in our faith. God’s ways are beyond our comprehension, and
His ultimate plan encompasses far more than our present circumstances. By
embracing the wisdom of God’s words and the hope proclaimed by Jesus, we
can face life’s challenges with strength and grace.Fr. Dominic Toan Tran, Pastor
As we prepare for the Lenten Season, let us take on the habit of reading and
meditating on God’s words. Through His love and grace, we can find the strength
to endure, persevere, and overcome our struggles. Let us open our hearts and
minds to receive the wisdom and guidance found in God’s words. As we immerse
ourselves in God’s words, may we discover the true meaning of hope and
purpose, even amid life’s most challenging circumstances.