This past Wednesday, our small community of nine people gathered to reflect on the upcoming Sunday readings; Matt 8:17, Job 7:1-4, 6-7, 1 Cor 9:16,22-23.
Some of the communities use the resource; Living Liturgy, which in part comments on the readings. To summarize this week's commentary; " . . .as the gospel illustrates, in times of trouble we need the personal touch and presence of another."
During our discussion one of our memebers shared a powerful story of "transformation of human hopelessness through a personal encounter with Jesus. . . As his disciples, this is our work as well."
To maintain the confidentiality of the small group sharing, I will only retell the story which was publically shared.
Our GIFT member inadvertently found herself at an Amish retreat. The presenter at the retreat shared that she had survived many trials including breast cancer, however as she stated; "nothing prepared her for what was to come."
She lives in Amish country. One day five years ago, she was informed that something unthinkable had occurred. Her son who delivered milk to a school had gone on a shooting rampage and killed 5 Amish children and then killed himself.
During this horrible time some very amazing, lifegiving things happened; the Amish community (including those whose children were murdered) came to support her and her family in their grief. They stood with her at her son's grave and offered unconditional forgiveness and love.
That story has dominated my thoughts. It reminds me of Jesus' invitation to be there for others in time of trouble. It challenges me to examine my ability to forgive. Most importantly it offers hope beyond description.
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