Memorial of Saint Paul Miki and Companions, Martyrs
One of the things I enjoy reading every morning is the “Dear Abby” column in our local newspaper. Recently, there was a letter from an older woman asking Abby where she might suggest that this woman look to find opportunities to enjoy the warmth of a hug or touch of other people. She had recently lost her husband, and missed the physical connection that she had enjoyed. Many readers in the weeks that followed offered various suggestions, such as finding a ballroom dance class or joining a group at a church where often friendships grow and people greet one another with hugs and warmth. I think all people need and desire the touch of other people. It gives us a sense of belonging and being loved. Even more so, I think people need the touch of God. I believe, as it has been suggested by others, that we are all created with a “God-shaped hole” in our hearts which can only be filled with His presence. God put this in us, and this is what makes us long to be with Him, so that we may be complete.
In the gospel reading today, news of Jesus’ ministry was spreading throughout the land. Wherever He went, people “began to bring in the sick on mats’ and “they laid the sick in the marketplaces and begged him that they might touch only the tassel on his cloak.” (Mark 6:55) The people longed to be in His presence, and “as many as touched him were healed.” (Mark 6:56) These individuals were so convinced of Jesus’ mercy and ability to heal that they went to great lengths to actively search after Him, so they could be close enough to experience just His touch.
In the first reading, King Solomon had completed a temple for the Lord. Previously, during their time of wandering in the dessert, the Ark had been kept in a tent that traveled with the Israelites wherever they had journeyed. Finally in Jerusalem, the Lord would have a place of honor in the temple. The people of Israel were assembled with King Solomon as the priests brought the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord to the place that it would rest- in the holy of holies. The Ark contained “the two stone tablets which Moses had put there at Horeb, when the Lord made a covenant with the children of Israel at their departure from the land of Egypt.” (1 Kings 8: 9) The Ark represented God’s presence to the people of Israel, and His promise of protection and mercy. Solomon and the entire community of Israel were present and sacrifices were offered up “too many to count” (1 Kings 8:5) The people worshipped the Lord, and the “Lord‘s Glory had filled the temple of the Lord. (1 Kings 8:11) The people of Israel recognized their need for God’s presence and Solomon rejoiced and said “The Lord intends to dwell in the dark cloud; I have truly built you a princely house, where you may abide forever (1 Kings 9:13)
Like the people in the gospel, we long for the touch of Christ. We know that His presence is what will bring us healing and strength. But where can we find Him? I think there are several places where we can experience the touch of God-in prayer, in scripture, and certainly in the sacraments- particularly the Eucharist. When we receive communion, we welcome Jesus into our beings. We become like the Ark of the Covenant where God’s presence fills us with His Spirit and grace. His presence brings us healing and mercy, but this is not just for us. As His disciples, we are called to take Him- His presence to the world, so others may know His love through us.
Today let us pray that we recognize the longing in our hearts that leads us to God. Let us seek Him in prayer and sacrament and allow Him to touch us and fill us. May we become His temples, so His glory may be seen in our thoughts, words and actions.
- Marylynn Herchline