All of the Above

Gospel: Matthew 9: 18-26

Many remember taking multiple choice tests, and very often a question would have as the last option "All of the Above." The standard rule of thumb was - when in doubt, choose All of the Above in attempting to answer these questions.  That is the approach Jesus takes when it comes to the question of whom we should help and care for.

Jesus is first asked by a synagogue official, an important person in the community, to heal his daughter.  Along the way a woman in desperate need of healing approaches Jesus.  Rather than continue on his way, he heals the woman, for she has just as much importance as the synagogue official in the realm of care for others.

There are those who would restrict our attention and concern to just certain people and certain issues that they claim have priority over others.  Jesus rejects such thinking by showing today that all are part of our circle of concern and care.  It is the task of the Christian community to care for all with equal energy and attention.  Any suggestion to the contrary is a watering down of our faith tradition and the Gospel.  When in doubt, choose all of the above.