Memorial of Saint Charles Lwanga, martyr, and his companions, martyrs

Today's Mass Readings

In 1946 movie goers got to meet and walk in the shoes of a man named “George Bailey.” The movie was entitled, “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Far from its title, the story begins by focusing on “George” and his imminent suicide. Unbeknownst to George, God is watching and decides to intervene, enter “Clarence” angel in training. Clarence teaches George that despite his desolate feelings, George’s his life has made a huge difference in the world. Tobit and Sarah have very desperate feelings and prayers in today’s first reading from the Book of Tobit. Blind and bed-ridden, Tobit prays to the Lord for an end to his suffering; “command my life breath to be taken from, that I may go from the face of the Earth into dust.” (Tobit 3:6) Sarah prayerfully begs the Lord to have her die. God, of course, has other plans and the chapter finishes with an almost storybook ending. God sends an angel to heal Tobit’s eyes so that he could see again. The angel also straightens out Sarah’s life by having her marry Tobit’s son Tobiah and driving out the demon that has ended her last seven marriages before they even started.

In the gospel reading from Mark, Jesus responds to the Sadducees. Their question about resurrection is based on recalling today’s situation in Tobit. Although they use marriage to test Jesus, the Sadducees are missing the point. Jesus tries to teach them that the life after life is not the same as here. More importantly, Jesus quotes Exodus “I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” (Ex 6:3) The point being made is that Abraham, Isaac and Jacob had already passed from this life but alive with God now.

St. Charles, whose feast we celebrate today, suffered and was imprisoned for his steadfast belief. While in prison, he taught others the faith and encouraged them to stay strong even until possible martyrdom. His witness reminds us that no matter how desolate our lives seem, there is always room to trust that God is using our lives for the good of the community. Ironically, St. Charles would rather die serving the Lord then live a life that defies God’s teachings.

Lord, there are many things that get us down on ourselves. So many times, our daily sufferings can tempt our hearts to a place of despair from which it is hard to recover. Today’s readings epitomize how suffering can be redemptive if we trust in you. In your compassion Lord, lead us away from our navel-gazing. Teach us your ways, O Lord, so that our sadness turns to joy as we lift up our souls to you. Amen!

-Michael Montgomery