9th Week in Ord. Time, Saturday – 10th June 2023 – Tobit 12,1.5-15.20; Mk 12,38-44
Trusting Companion
The first reading is the conclusion from the Book of Tobit. A central character has been the shadowy figure of Raphael who was in the background, through whom much has been happening. The characters in the story had no idea that Raphael was an angel and a messenger of God. They saw him as a helpful and guiding companion for Tobiah on his journey to the Media. Towards the end, Raphael reveals who he is and how he has been sent from God to Tobit, Tobiah and Sarah. Finally, Raphael suddenly disappears, a style that is normal in divine revelations or in epiphanies. Raphael has lived out the name given to him by God as the “healer of God”. He has restored the sight to Tobit, to Sarah healed of her curses, and to Tobiah provided a lovely wife. God, through Raphael, has shown how things can work out for the good of those who seek God’s will in their lives and are willing to persevere through trying times. Raphael proclaims the importance of giving praise to God and trusting in Him, which leads to mighty works of God in their lives.
