Words can bring comfort, just like the entrance antiphon for this Sunday “The Lord said: I think thoughts of peace and not of affliction. You will call upon me, and I will answer you…” At some point our lives gets disrupted. Normality can no longer be taken for granted. Something unexpected throws us off balance into an abyss. It could be a bad turn in health that has slowed life’s plans or an unexpected departure from a close friend. We desperately want to get back on our feet but there are things that cannot be rushed. What remains is for us to endure however long that may be. Unfortunately falling into despair is a real possibility. A call for help in these times is something I consider incredibly courageous even inspiring. To acknowledge our need for help is a sign of hope. Hope is to keep trying and keep living despite all that seems to be against us. Words bring comfort because words bring an alternative to the feelings and thoughts that cloud our mind and immobilise our body.
Each November our parish invite families and friends who had lost someone in the past year to a special Mass, A Mass of Remembrance. We acknowledge the incredible suffering that comes with losing someone. By coming together we acknowledge our common experience. In this Mass we acknowledge the source of our peace comes from God in times of affliction.
We can take comfort in the fact that God’s words are sincere. Sincere words mean a great deal. They come from a place that hopes and wishes for the best. In God’s case, who wills the best. May those who listen can feel the sincerity of God’s words in their hearts.
By Fr Hoang Dinh
19 Brenbeal Street, Balwyn VIC 3103
Telephone: 03 9816 9291
Email: [email protected]
Office Hours:
Tue - Fri 9:00am – 5:00pm
Laura Facci says:
Lovely homily Father Hoang.