A Touch of Life: Scripture for June 28, 2009

Scripture for Sunday, June 28, 2009: 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time:

Wisdom 1:13-15, 2:23-24; 2 Corinthians 9: 13-15; Mark 5: 21-43

A Touch of Life

The children's classic Stone Soup tells the story of a town that had no food until someone put a large pot in the center of town and told people to bring just one thing to add to the soup. Gradually wonderful soup emerged and everyone in the town was fed.
Sometimes life is like this story of soup; at times we each can give only a small amount to a situation to help make a difference and possibly help bring about change. At times we may even wonder if our small contribution makes any difference. This, however, can be a self-defeating attitude that actually keeps someone from making a difference or being part of a larger good endeavor.

God's Word today encourages us and reminds us of our call to reach out and touch the lives of others. Even Jesus didn't heal everyone in every town in which he ministered. Yet Jesus certainly made a difference! He often healed by touching the person or simply holding that person's hand as we see in the story found in Mark's Gospel.

As God's Word encourages, strengthens, and renews us today, this Word also challenges us to use our own limited time, talent and treasure in our everyday lives to touch the lives of others. Sometimes even the slighest gesture or word cahelp bring life to another.

To think about: Who are some people who have touched my life in some way through their joy, compassion, understanding or patience? Who touches my life in practical, daily ways through their work or their generosity?

Do I have realistic expectations of myself and others or do I have expectations based on TV programs where everything is resolved in a limited amount of time? Do any of my relationships need help or a touch of healing? What personal gift or talent can I bring to that relationship?

How are Jesus and the church community a source of strength, help or healing for me and my family? Is there something I can do to help make this church community a sign of Jesus' love and healing?

To do: Thank someone who has helped you when you were in need. Do something each day, regardless of how small or insignificant it may seem, to touch someone's life with kindness, gentleness or patience.

Let Jesus’ relationship with you influence one way that you and your family use your time, talent, or treasure this week by showing love, care, or concern for others. Thank God for your gifts and talents. Parents can try to affirm the gifts and talents they notice in their child: gifts like kindness, gentleness,a sense of humor, caring for others, or co-operation.

To pray: “We are companions on the journey, breaking bread and sharing life; and in the love we bear is the hope we share for we believe in the love of our God” (“Companions on the Journey” by Carey Landry)

Next week:14th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Ezekiel 2:2-5; 2 Corinthians 12:7-10; Mark 6:1-6