THE VITALITY OF YOUTH
We know we are
in direct contact with the loving power that can transform suffering into joy
and death into everlasting life.
Do you know the
majesty of God?
Today's reading
from Ecclesiastes speaks of the failing health and infirmities of old age in a
figurative way. It speaks of failing eyesight: "They who look through the
windows grow blind"; loss of hearing: "The doors to the street are
shut, and the sound of the mill is low" and "One fears heights and
perils in the street." Ecclesiastes, by its appearance in the Bible, gives
permission for us to feel melancholic about aging and our nostalgia for youth.
In today's Gospel
we hear about the amazement of the disciples at all Jesus Christ is doing. We
also, as His followers, have reason to be amazed at the good God our Father can
draw out of the pains and worries of old age or of any age we might be at this
time on our journey. What generosity and kindness it can bring forth in the
young and healthy, what compassion and gentleness in those of us getting older
or in our senior years. As we are united once again to the Lord Jesus and each
other at the altar and in His Sacrifice, we know we are in direct contact with
the loving power that can transform suffering into joy and death into
everlasting life.
The Gospel
Acclamation brings us great hope: "Our Savior, Christ Jesus, destroyed
death and brought life to light through the Gospel" (2 Tim 1:10). Let us
pray: "Lord Jesus Christ, by Your Cross You have redeemed the world and
revealed Your glory and triumph over sin and death. May I never fail to see
Your glory and victory in the Cross. Help me to conform my life to Your will
and to follow in Your way always. Amen."