SAINT JUSTIN, MARTYR (MEMORIAL)

Your true character is finally showing itself! 

Most scholars believe that the Book of Tobit, which we’ll follow in our Mass readings this week, is a collection of stories from ancient folk literature. So why is it part of our Bible? Because it reveals timeless truths about marriage, family life, and suffering that can strengthen our relationships and guide us as we pray for family members.

For example, the story reminds us that no family has a perfect life. Tobit’s wife, Anna, criticizes him in an already hard time (Tobit 2:14). Both Tobit and Anna fret mightily over the safety of their son, Tobiah (5:18-19). Their future daughter-in-law, Sarah, even contemplates suicide (3:10). These characters are deeply human, and that helps us relate to their challenges.

The Book of Tobit also shows us how important it is to stay faithful to God in prayer. In moments of great uncertainty, the Israelites in Tobit cling to the Lord (7:17). They ask for his intervention and keep practicing the customs that center their lives around God (8:4-7). And he does intervene! He provides for Tobit and his family by sending an angel as a messenger and traveling companion (3:16-17).

Finally, the characters in this story courageously entrust their family members to God. Even when they don’t see the outcomes they are praying for, Sarah and Tobit place their own and their loved ones’ lives in God’s hands (Tobit 3:1-15). They also speak confidently of God’s everlasting goodness, even when they could have been complaining (7:11). In this, they remind us to surrender our families to the Lord in faith, and they show us the importance of praising God in the midst of trials.

So enjoy this lively story! As you do, remember to pray and place your trust in a loving God who knows your struggles and is at work in the middle of them—even when you don’t recognize it!

“Lord, I place my family in your hands.”

Psalm 112:1-2, 7-9
Mark 12:13-17
Tobit 2:9-14

WORD AMONG US