As individuals, communities, and nations, we struggle to believe and trust the goodness of others. Security cameras, gated communities, and anti-theft devices are part of our lives. It appears that we have a problem with trusting other members of our human family. We set up barriers—either physically or psychologically to protect ourselves.

In today’s readings, we encounter two men inviting reflection on our trust in one another and the Lord’s promises to us. Abraham encounters the Lord, is invited into a covenant, and receives an incredible promise of the birth of a child despite their advanced age. Although he prostrates himself, his immediate response is to laugh at such a promise. Perhaps this is just too good to be true.

The leper in the Gospel encounters Jesus. He has hope and trust in this man. Jesus, Lord, if you wish, you can make me clean. He places his trust in him — hoping that he will reach out and touch him despite the fact he is an untouchable leper. Abraham and the leper experienced a change, a new beginning in life, and a challenge to walk in fidelity to the Lord’s love.

We have been touched by the grace of the Lord’s healing. We have been entrusted with living the Covenant and sharing the promise of life with others. We experience the challenge of trusting that what seems too good to be true is true.

Each time we celebrate the Eucharist, we are touched by the Lord and one another. We receive a new beginning challenging us to reach out to others with care abandoning our distrust. In the words of Saint Peter Julian, we should never weaken to act through pure faith in mercy and in the goodness and power of God.

How will I enable others to trust in the Lord’s goodness?

Let us pray:

Lord, with gratitude, we remember your fidelity to your promises to us. May your Spirit increase our faith and trust in your promise to always walk with us as we learn to walk with each other in peace. May we live as people of the Covenant. Amen.