If you prefer to use your own Bible, the readings are: First Reading: Wisdom 3:1-9 Responsorial: PS 126:1BC-2AB, 2CD-3, 4-5, 6 Gospel: Matthew 10:28-33
Our reflection on Thursday’s readings:
“Those who sow in tears shall reap rejoicing.” Psalm 126:5
Damian and Cosmas were Arabs, twin brothers and physicians who offered their gifts of healing at no charge to their patients. Their deep faith in the power of love—Jesus our Lord—converted many people to Christianity. Their actions earned them the wrath of the Emperor of their day, culminating in their torture and death.
A few physicians today, like Damian and Cosmas, have abiding faith in the power of love. Offering their services at no charge, they celebrate God’s grace and mercy, and give testimony to Jesus’ cry for justice.
My sister Ellen is one such physician. Her book, Life and Death in Kolofata, is a collection of harrowing and gut wrenching essays that make a persuasive case that those who sow in tears shall reap rejoicing.
As important, her essays remind us that healing, true healing—through kindness, humility and unconditional love—reaches beyond the physical to the soul. Healing of such a fundamental sort is the province of each of us, physician and non-physician alike.
