King David had many sons, and some died tragically. His favourite son was Absalom and it was David's wish that he not be harmed. However, Absalom was brutally killed. The three lances that pierced his heart must have been deeply felt by David. With shock, the victory turned to a flood of tears and led to the mourning of the town. David became grief-stricken. What is our experience of grief? Do we turn to Our Lord in these times?

The desperate synagogue official was fearful of what might happen to his sick daughter. He let go of status and fell at Jesus' feet in the midst of people. He did not hide his fear and anticipatory grief should his daughter pass away. The older woman, tormented by a haemorrhage, pushed her way in the crowds. She unashamedly grieved the state of her life. Jesus declares that faith in Him is the condition for cure and complete healing, whether it is the faith of the sick person or of those who plead for another person.

Michelangelo's magnificent painting depicts God's strong arm, fully stretched, and Adam's arm reaching out to God. This fresco in the Sistine Chapel highlights God's unconditional and unyielding love for His creature. God's finger is fully extended, while Adam's finger is slightly bent, in a way, reluctant. We too may find ourselves, fragile and vulnerable, coming before our Lord. With every ounce of faith, we reach out and touch Jesus in our grief for ourselves and all God's creatures.