In today’s First Reading the Lord teaches us that it is not good for us to be alone. We were born into a family, a web of relationships forged by blood and by love, along with a responsibility to care for one another. With the creation of Eve in today’s First Reading Adam finally finds some who does not only keep him from loneliness, but who makes him complete. This interrelationship is meant to become a communion of life and love, an image of the communion of Persons whom we worship as the Most Holy Trinity.
For those blessed with children this communion grows and extends to the entire family, but it doesn’t just stop there. United and loving families are the building blocks of society, and the Lord also gathers believers together into communion with him and with their fellow believers in the Church. A communion of life and love helps each person to realize that they’re never truly alone, and never completely unloved.
Say an extra prayer today for the lonely and marginalized, so that they experience the love of God and the love of others. If you know someone who is struggling with loneliness, today’s the day to extend the hand of friendship and help them realize they’re not alone.
Readings: Genesis 2:18–25; Psalm 128:1–5; Mark 7:24–30. See also 18th Week in Ordinary Time, Wednesday, Year II and 18th Week in Ordinary Time, Wednesday.