1 Corinthians 12:12-14, 27-31; Psalm 99; Luke 7:11-17
Comfort in the Tragedies of Life
Tragedy is an event that causes great suffering, destruction, and distress, such as a serious accident, crime, or natural catastrophe. Luke 7:11-17 presents us with the tragedy that befell a widow due to the death of her only son. This text equally offers some ways we can cope with life’s hardships.
When the Lord saw her, he had compassion for her and said to her, “Do not weep.” Jesus had sympathy for the widow. How do we relate with widows in their tragedy? Do we comfort them or we frustrate them the more? Are our laws and traditions helpful or harmful to these widows? There are so many tragedies that people go through, Christ wants us to represent is message of hope and joy to man. Your talent, prayers, words of encouragement, resources or presence can restore a mouner.
When life seems to be going in a negative direction, we can rely on our faith and ask God for help. Ps. 30:5 “…weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” This text also demonstrates Christ’s power over death ahead of his own resurrection. Death may be our worst enemy but by the reason of the resurrection Christ has shown us victory over death.
Let us pray for those who mourn, let us learn to comfort them. We may not raise the dead back to life like Jesus; but we can make the living to find reasons to continue to live. Let us keep in mind that Jesus, the revered prophet of the mourners, is still present with us. He is the same yesterday, today and forever.
Lastly, in the first reading St Paul says; the Church is the body of Christ. We may be of different parts just like the human body but we form an organic unit. Therefore, let us all play our roles to make the world a better place for us all. Help not hinder!
LET US PRAY
Father, have mercy and give us grace to overcome the challenges of life. Give us victory over death, sorrow and pains. Teach us to help each other. Amen!
St John Chrysostom, pray for us
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
