At times we look around and see people who inspire us, people who show courage beyond what we can imagine ourselves possessing, and we wonder, how do they do it?
In today’s first reading, we get a glimpse into one woman’s story, a woman who was so convinced that she was out of options that she was preparing for her and her son to die.
Perhaps you or a family member have reached a level approaching desperation of this degree.
Until yesterday, every time I’ve read this passage, I’ve run right by Elijah’s words to the woman, “Do not be afraid.” But this time, I wondered, “what’s he talking about? She’s not afraid to turn over her last bit of food, for she’s already said she expects to die.”
Instead, I believe Elijah is encouraging her to dare to have hope that she and her son might live. Elijah seeks for her to have the courage to hope in God.
Going back to times when you or a loved one have struggled mightily, have you ever found yourself guarding against having hope, fearful that you’ll only be disappointed?
I think that’s why this scriptural passage captures the essence of trusting in God when we are close to or at the line of throwing in the towel. For when we or anyone reaches this point, God is with us. In this case, He sent the prophet Elijah who had his own needs, so that this woman, her son, and we can see what God can do even when life is at its darkest.
In the gospel, the disciples are being given a pep talk. And when you look at these two passages together, we hear the call from Jesus to be the Elijah’s for our family and friends.
Every one of us who has received the Holy Spirit, the grace of God, is meant to be salt and light to those in need at times when we are struggling or hungering in some way too.
Jesus gives this message right after Giving the Sermon on the Mount that we know as the Beatitudes. Today, as we hear God’s call to dare to have hope, let us take a few minutes to read prayerfully or, even better, speak aloud the Beatitudes. When we do, we will recognize our reason for hope, our way of living, and how we can bring salt and light into the lives of those most in need.
May God bless you and your families on this holy day, as we pray for the courage to have hope as we seek be salt and light to those most in need!
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