The Good News

02-07-2021Weekly Reflection© J. S. Paluch Company

Today’s readings begin with a few verses from the book of Job. First, Job complains that his nights drag on endlessly. Then, worse yet, “My days are swifter than a weaver’s shuttle; / they come to an end without hope” (Job 7:6). Not exactly encouraging, these lamentations, not when taken alone.

Most of us have been there, though, and the antidote is the “good news” that Paul found so compelling that “an obligation has been imposed on me, and woe to me if I do not preach it!” (1 Corinthians 9:16). Paul felt driven to announce the gospel to as many people as possible, “to save at least some” (9:22).

This good news is the mystery of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, who lifted Simon Peter’s mother-in-law from her sickbed with a mere touch of his hand. “The whole town was gathered at the door. He cured many who were sick with various diseases, and he drove out many demons” (Mark 1:33–34).