The WORD in other words (2006) by Father Gil Alejandria SVD – Catholic Trade Manila
Monday 14th Week in Ordinary Time
There was a movie that highlighted a town in Pangasinan as a place of miracles—a destination for many seeking healing from life’s burdens. This is not unfamiliar; places like Lourdes, Fatima, and Medjugorje have long been associated with miraculous healings. Much of this healing is often attributed to the faith of the people.
In today’s Gospel, we encounter a similar faith in the official whose daughter had died. Jesus raised her, saying: “The girl is not dead but sleeping” (Matthew 9:24), and then “He took her by the hand, and the girl arose” (Matthew 9:25).
Miracles can be understood in different ways:
- Reminder of God’s power – showing that nothing is beyond His authority.
- Fruit of prayer – revealing what faith-filled prayer can accomplish.
- God’s mystery – moments when He bends the natural order to reveal His glory.
Why did Jesus bring the girl back to life? Was it pity for the grieving father, or a sign to strengthen faith? Scripture often leaves us with more questions than answers. What became of the father afterward? Did he become a devoted follower? What about the girl—did she dedicate her life to God? These mysteries remind us that miracles are not just about the event itself, but about the transformation they inspire.
Throughout history, miracles have changed lives, strengthened faith, and restored hope. They remind us that God is near and that His power surpasses all human imagination. As Jesus Himself said: “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26).
Miracles, then, are not merely extraordinary events. They are gentle reminders that God walks with us, intervenes in our struggles, and calls us to deeper trust.
