Both the epistle and the gospel this week provide “call stories” for reflection on vocation. Saint Paul describes the nature of his mission, and Jesus affirms that preaching and healing are the reasons for which he has come. How do you understand the “obligation,” to use Paul’s term, God has given you in your ministry? What is your purpose?

No one knows suffering firsthand like Job does. He’s humanity’s Sufferer-in-Chief. In the story, he loses his worldly wealth, his children, and his bodily health in a single day. Plus he has to contend with a less-than-supportive spouse and friends who are worse than no friends at all. Finally, there is God’s relentless silence. It’s tough to be Job. Contrary to the platitude, Job is not patient at all about this. He laments bitterly, wishes for death sincerely, and cries to heaven for justice. 

Directly on leaving the meeting place, they came to Simon and Andrew’s house, accompanied by James and John. Simon’s mother-in-law was sick in bed, burning up with fever. They told Jesus. He went to her, took her hand, and raised her up. No sooner had the fever left than she was up fixing dinner for them.

We all have bad situations with which to deal. We cope with them—until they start stringing together. The day starts with the toaster burning the bread. That you can handle. The oil light blinks as you drive to work. No problem. You’re ready for scheduled maintenance the end of the month. You realize that you’ve forgotten your lunch and the vending machine is broken. Oh well! Then the boss demands you stay late to finish a project. Why me? Suddenly, you realize you are angry. Traffic is at a standstill despite your late departure. Now the day has really gotten to you. You get home and find out that the cable TV is out. Even the third beer doesn’t help. The frozen pizza keeps you up. What a day!

Merciful God, may we have a share in making known the salvation you desire for the world. We ask this in the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior.

Everyone can identify with Job at some point in their lives. What are the alternatives? Give up on God or trust that God is on your side and will carry you through? Saint Paul recognized that Jesus was the inspiration for persevering in faith.

Rightly is my hope strong in Him, who sits at Thy right hand and intercedes for us . . . . For many and great are my infirmities, many and great; but Thy medicine is of more power. —Saint Augustine of Hippo (354-430 C.E.)