Memorial of Saint John of the CrossSt. Paul’s letter to the Corinthians is a strong reminder that the message he proclaims is the power of God in Jesus crucified and not elegant words of human wisdom. Paul says, “Rather, we speak God’s wisdom, mysterious, hidden, which God predetermined before the ages for our glory….” Later he continues: “What eye has not seen and ear has not heard, and what has not entered the human heart, what God has prepared for those who love him, this God has revealed to us through the Spirit.” Similarly, in the Gospel of Luke, Jesus unveils the Spirit’s wisdom when he tells us: “If anyone comes to me without hating his father and mother… even his own life, he cannot be my disciple.” These are hard words. If considered only under the light of human wisdom, they contradict common sense. When meditating on these words and all we have experienced in 2020, both personally and at Catholic Charities, I realize that God in many ways still a mystery to us, and that only if we trust and have faith in Him will these words make any sense. The key for me to understand this year’s suffering is to read over and over that the message St. Paul, St. John of the Cross and all the saints proclaim is: “Jesus crucified.” There is peace in accepting and being willing to share his cross. We are not going to solve all the social and economic problems of the people we serve, but we can attempt to share their cross and offer to them the peace of Christ to make their cross lighter. I believe that our primary goal at Catholic Charities is to share Christ with all those who come and seek our help. A simple smile, a recognition of everyone’s dignity, a non-judgmental look can go a long way; but most important are our prayers and faith that the God who can do all things, can change the person and therefore the world. Roberto Partarrieu is Executive Director Catholic Charities Diocese of La Crosse, WI and a member of CCUSA’s Council of Diocesan Directors. |
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