21/07/2024

Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

“Took pity on them. They were like sheep without a shepherd.”

God takes pity on us – certainly on me - and sends us his help and guidance through events and people we meet.

It’s good to recognise his presence – and thank god for his help – not just the person helping us.

A story I use to illustrate this is

Singlehanded, transatlantic, fundamentalist Christian sailor.

Halfway across the Atlantic, an early morning, sudden storm turns his boat over. He climbs up onto its keel. “No problem. God will save me.”

Mid-morning, a liner approaches and slows down. “Can we help you sir?” Comes a call from a loudspeaker. “Thank you. But no need. God will save me.”

After noon, a super tanker approaches. Same conversation.

At dusk, a frigate comes close. Same conversation.

Midnight, our friend dies of hypothermia.

At the gates of heaven, he meets God and blurts out. “You betrayed me. I believed in you.”

“But, my dear,” replies God. “I sent you a liner, I sent you a super tanker, and a frigate. What more could I have done?”

God is present in the presents he sends us, and these include our friends, family, and allies in life. Thank God for these. Thank God for being invited to be one of these for your friends – including your family.

I thank God for God present in my friends – and these include many of you.