When I was teaching, I would sometimes pose the question, “What is your favorite verse or section of Scripture?” It was inspiring to accompany people as they thoughtfully considered the many possibilities, searching through memory and faith. Sometimes, it wasn’t easy to single one out. Our favorite might change at different times in our lives. I think it’s an interesting question to ask oneself. Not only for what it tells us about God but also to contemplate what God’s Spirit reveals to us about ourselves.
For me, this time of year, a verse from the Book of Wisdom is prominent. I find its imagery soul-searching and consoling.
“But the souls of the just are in the hand of God,
and no torment shall touch them.” (Wisdom 3:1)
Compassionate Image
The hand of God is a compassionate image. In many ways, our lives involve placing ourselves in the hands of others, parents, guardians, extended family, teachers, health care providers, friends, and many more. I believe God cares for us through the gifts and skills of all the people whose compassion has touched our lives.
Hope Endures
In this month of the Holy Souls, we cannot help but be mindful of the many people we have known who have preceded us into eternal life.
“Those who trust in him shall understand truth,
and the faithful shall abide with him in love:
Because grace and mercy are with his holy ones,
and his care with his elect.” (Wisdom 3:9)
God’s love is more than we can imagine, as is the breadth of His Creation. Our faith assures us that life doesn’t end with death but is changed.
“…But they are in peace.” (Wisdom 3:3)
One Family
Our lives are bound to each other. We are interrelated, interconnected – all of humanity, a community of the beloved. We are a human family with one Creator who knows and loves all of us, those who have gone before us and those who will follow us. We are His precious creation, reflections of Him. He draws us to Himself.
“You formed my inmost being;
you knit me in my mother’s womb.
I praise you, because I am wonderfully made;
wonderful are your works!
My very self you know.” (Psalm 139:13-14)
Let our family prayer at this time of year seek the graces of Hope, Love, and Faith. We are always in God’s hand.