Scripture: Jeremiah 31:15
This is what the Lord says: “A voice is heard in Ramah, ask mourning and great weeping, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more.”

Thought for the Day: Throughout history artists have used tragedy as a dramatic medium. From Homer to the Bible, from King Lear to Jesus on the cross, whether in print or on film, we seem to be a race that is innately attracted to stories about tragedy. But why?

A team of researchers at Ohio State University has gathered evidence “that watching tragedy inspires self-reflection, which allows us to refocus on the people in our lives we might otherwise take for granted.” They conclude that the melancholy we feel when watching or reading these stories ultimately provokes “pleasant feelings of gratitude.”

Self-reflection is one of our most important spiritual disciplines. By constantly questioning our beliefs we open ourselves up to new ways of looking at God and each other, so that even in the midst of tragedy we are able to see the face of God.

Prayer: May I always feel your presence in my life, God most Holy, even when I am in the midst of unimaginable circumstances. Amen.