December 17 — Feast Day of Saint Olympias
A Mercy neurosurgeon shared this story:
"On rounds, I heard a code blue called overhead in the pediatric ICU. A young patient of mine was hospitalized …. [rushing there,] I looked at the child's motionless body and felt all hope drain from me. It was too late; I was too late."
A quick, courageous action he took next narrowly saved her life. Gutted, he went to meet the family:
"I did not look them in the eyes as I spoke. I confessed my shame at nearly missing what had almost taken the life of their precious daughter. After a moment's hesitation, the girl's mother pulled me close and ordered me to look at her. I did, accepting whatever would come next. 'It's alright, Doctor,' she said softly, 'all is good, you are not God.' My composure slipped away: I sobbed."
Today's Gospel describes generations of continuity, while noting an unusual thread of female figures. These women's faithful participation in God's plan led to unexpected outcomes. Each day, as we follow routines and plans, may our hope come in trusting that God is at work. We pray: O Wisdom of our God most high … come to teach us the path of knowledge!
Sara McGinnis Lee
Vice President, Mission and Clinical Integration
Pause
Where in your life today can you place deeper trust in the work of God?
Pray
God, who is hope, shine Your light in our darkness so that we may continue to build Your kingdom. Let us be reflections of Your brilliance, always working to make Your goodness known. In Your Holy Name we pray, Amen.