Jesus wants to bring light to those who live in the shadow of death. If we just have faith and Jesus’ sensitivity, his wish for us will come true.

Neighbors and relatives rejoiced with Elizabeth. But they did not really experience her sensitivity to the merciful God. That was why they found odd the name she wanted for her child.

The disciples find it odd, too, that their Teacher asks, with the crowd pressing on him, “Who touched my clothes?” That is because they think they know exactly how Jesus feels. But they are mistaken. They are not aware, of course, that power has gone out of him. And the confession of the woman who has touched his cloak makes it clear that his sensitivity is greater than theirs.

But Jesus shows his great sensitivity even more when he states, “The child is not dead but asleep.” He goes against all evidence and sees beyond appearances. It is not surprising, then, that those who weep and wail laugh at him.

Nor is it surprising that he puts them all out. No, there can be no agreement between Jesus’ sensitivity and the people’s sensitivity. Besides, commotion is distracting and dulls one’s sensitivity. Apparently, only those with strong faith, like the woman with hemorrhages, overcome the turmoil the masses create. And those who, like the girl’s parents and those accompanying Jesus, who let themselves be led by his sensitivity.

And the obvious question that arises for us is this: Do we really believe in Jesus, clothing ourselves with his sensitivity?

Jesus assures us, “I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.” Do we believe this? Is it our conviction that God formed us to be imperishable and made us the image of his own nature?

Setting himself against worldly people, Jesus sees wealth in poverty. He turns smallness into greatness, foolishness into wisdom, weakness into strength. Do we see as does Jesus? Those who truly put their trust in God’s goodness are sure that they are always under his protection (CRCM II:2). Do we have the same certainty?

Lord Jesus, increase our faith. And nourish us at the banquet of your Word and Bread and make us share also in your sensitivity.

1 July 2018
13^th Sunday in O.T. (B)
Wis 1, 13-15; 2, 23-24; 2 Cor 8, 7-9. 13-15; Mk 5, 21-43