And a Child Shall Lead Them...

Yesterday I attended the funeral of a 12-year-old boy who died tragically. He was autistic, which made it difficult for him to relate to people, despite the fact that he was extremely intelligent. Locked inside his body, he was unable to freely communicate and interact ‘normally’ by many people’s standards.

Sean, however, in his short life, made an impact. His funeral Mass was a testament to that. Hundreds of people gathered to offer condolences to his mother, father, and brother who were aching for the loss of their son and brother. Hundreds came to celebrate the life of this little man who, despite the fact that he had severe disabilities by many people’s standards, touched the lives and hearts of so many. Hundreds came together to pray and to stand in testimony of the hope that through faith in Christ, Sean is now with God in heaven—a place we all hope to be someday.

 As I sat amid the hundreds gathered and I looked upon his family, particularly his mother, I was once again reminded of how much God loves us. He sent his Son, who died for us so that we may have eternal life—life that is free of barriers, impediments, and limitations. He gave us His Blessed Mother, who watched as her Son—the one she cradled in her arms and lovingly cared for—died on the cross for us. In her we have an example of strength and faith that holds us up when our hearts are breaking. God loves us so much He sent His Holy Spirit, whose presence enflames the heart of the Church and builds the community of faith that, in times of great suffering, wraps its arms around us and holds us close.

 Why do I believe? Because it is times like these—when logically one could ask, “Where is God and why do things happen like this?” that I am assured of the generosity of God’s mercy and love. Through Christ’s sufferings, we have the gift of eternal life. Through our sufferings, we come to know the depths of this love so that we can share it with others.

 I think of Sean, who used to hum and sing behind me in Church every Sunday. While he will not be physically there, his song continues in the heavenly choir, where he freely sings in praise and worship to the One who loves us all. He will also remain forever in my heart, where I will cherish the young man who reminds me that nothing, no barrier or obstacle, can keep me apart from Christ!