In Tribulation Is the Test of the Just

Dear Friend,

As I write this, I'm sure I'm feeling what many are feeling:  the disquiet of thoughts of the invasion of Ukraine by Russia. Commentators are clear that the situation is going to get worse in the coming days and weeks, as we watch the destruction and loss of life. Each of us in our parish community will be drawn into news and commentary from various sources, urging one course of action or another.   

As I ask the Lord for direction this morning, my eyes are drawn to a prayer I have taped to my wall. It reads: "God grant me patience for things that take time, appreciation for all I have, tolerance for others with different struggles, and the strength to get up and try again one day at a time." In the face of the images of death and destruction, words like this can seem paltry, even useless. At the same time, great fracturing - internally and externally - can result from a loss of perspective which our words and prayers can give. We need a lens for depth perception.

The responsorial psalm for our liturgies this weekend gives us an image that assures us of a bedrock truth:  "The just one shall flourish like the palm tree; like a cedar of Lebanon shall he grow." Justice - "right relationship" with ourselves, our fellow parishioners, with God and all we have been given - is a one-day-at-a-time path. Let's support each other with loving care this week and set our minds on the strength that God has given us to face our trials. As Sirach writes to us in the first reading:  "in tribulation is the test of the just."

May the Lord give us peace!

Gratefully,

Fr. Dan ofm