Become Present – Reflection on Matthew 9:18-26
Sandwiched within the story of Jesus raising the official’s daughter from death is the woman in the crowd who interrupted Jesus. What did you notice first, the miracle of her touching Jesus’s cloak or that Jesus stopped what he was doing to pay attention to her? Like Jesus, we also can have unexpected encounters before reaching our intended destination. For instance, it developed into an hour-long conversation when I picked up someone’s dropped wallet in a parking lot. These interruptions could be considered negatives, but we can see them as proof that Grace has and will be available for someone in need. Jesus, working through us in these moments, gives us what we need to become present to those around us. These situations are full circle because our faith also lifts us to new heights.
The Woman with an Issue of Blood by James Tissot (full-resolution painting)
More details are available on the Brooklyn Museum website.
Additional Ordinary Time Reflections
Matthew 9:18-26 – Scripture *
A Girl Restored to Life and a Woman Healed
18 While he was saying these things to them, suddenly a leader of the synagogue came in and knelt before him, saying, “My daughter has just died; but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live.” 19 And Jesus got up and followed him, with his disciples. 20 Then suddenly a woman who had been suffering from hemorrhages for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his cloak, 21 for she said to herself, “If I only touch his cloak, I will be made well.” 22 Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And instantly the woman was made well. 23 When Jesus came to the leader’s house and saw the flute players and the crowd making a commotion, 24 he said, “Go away; for the girl is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him. 25 But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl got up. 26 And the report of this spread throughout that district.
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel and reading this Lectio Divina on Matthew 9:18-26 Reflection – Become Present.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these Lectio reflections on the Gospel readings? Since Lectio is not the only contemplative prayer style, others might appreciate these types of expressions in this ministry. Do you see God’s grandeur everywhere and unconditionally enjoy sharing the love of Christ that you have inside? Are you willing to be anonymous in what you would share? If so, email me.
Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities get to know your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite worldly distractions.
Attributions
*This site has permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible Mark 3 passage.
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