Daily Reflections

September 13, 2011
Visiting And Visited BY God

Here is a touching story that involves bringing a young man, the son of a widow in Naim back to life. The widow’s son would not only be her companion in life but one who would represent her in society. The patriarchal society prevalent during the time of Jesus renders the widow weak and an outcast. Fully aware of the situation, Jesus brought back to life the dead young man. This prompted the witnesses to exclaim, “A great prophet has arisen in our midst!” and “God has visited His people!”
People look for God in their daily lives. When God does not appear the way they wanted or expected, some people would turn atheist. But many are happy because God is very much present to them in their lives. They find God in the Eucharist, in the chapels, in their joys and sorrows, in their loved ones, in all the events happening around them, in sickness and in death. People experience God differently and this is primarily because of faith.
When I was assigned to a relatively poor parish, I was once called to give the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick to a very poor faithful in a depressed area in my parish. It was raining hard and water had begun to rise along the road. But the relative was determined to give her mother an opportunity to reconcile with God and receive the anointing. When we arrived at their place, floodwater had risen to hip level. I was worried, but my companion was not. She was more concerned about her mother. They elevated their mother by holding up her bed. It was difficult but I saw their faith. They could not let their mother go without being visited by God. I saw the calmness and peace in them as I left. They thanked me but they thanked God more. Deep inside, I thanked them for showing me their faith and teaching me about God’s presence in the process.
I thank God who chose me to represent Him to His people. Since then, my awareness of being God’s representative to His people has increased and deepened. Fr. Benny Tuazon

Reflection Question:
Has anyone’s faith touched and inspired you lately?

Thank You, Lord, for the gift of the priesthood. Thank You for giving Your people a concrete way to see, feel and hear You through us, Your priests. Thank You for visiting us!

St. Venerius, pray for us.