Skeptic

Today’s Gospel Text: While he was thus speaking to them, behold, a ruler came in and knelt before him, saying, "My daughter has just died; but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live." 19 And Jesus rose and followed him, with his disciples. 20 And behold, a woman who had suffered from a hemorrhage for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his garment; 21 for she said to herself, "If I only touch his garment, I shall be made well." 22 Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, "Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well." And instantly the woman was made well. 23 And when Jesus came to the ruler's house, and saw the flute players, and the crowd making a tumult, 24 he said, "Depart; for the girl is not dead but sleeping." And they laughed at him. 25 But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose. 26 And the report of this went through all that district. Matt 9:18-26

Reflection: They call them skeptics, who look at life in the negative sense and may keep grumbling about life and situations.

Likewise, there were skeptics at the funeral rites of the ruler's daughter. 

But how could they not, they grew up probably in keeping with Jewish tradition, in a family that played at funerals, the dirge.

They may have heard countless stories of death passed on from their ancestors and even been at funerals with their parents and grand parents playing the flute.

Could it be possible, that they have heard of people who have died for long hours and now coming back to life?

Possibly, they could have and there may have been cases like in our time, but in case a person does come to life then is a post script.

How can a person who is dead and is lying lifeless, cold as ever, be claimed to be sleeping?

That would be foolish and even the most optimist could fail in such circumstance.

But nevertheless, these with their expertise and knowledge do have an opportunity to make fun of the situation, failing to understand the power and might of God presence in their midst.

God will go to any extent to help us believe in him and his power, so that we may not be condemned, but be saved.

On the other hand these skeptics add to the drama, so that countless down the ages may unlearn their ways of approaching life and trust in God.

We can very well put ourselves in the shoes of these flute players and crowd and ask ourselves: “What would I have done in such a situation and how will I be prepared if such a situation should happen in our day? 

At the same time we should not be deceived by any imposter who will come in the name of the Lord.

Prayer: Lord, grant me wisdom, which you freely give to all those who ask of you and may I never chose to walk in darkness when I have the help of your light.

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