Homily for Sunday, March 22

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

In the past ten days, life as we have known it has changed radically. When someone dear to us is deathly ill, our whole perspective on life is different. We alter our schedules and our mindset in the light of the needs of our loved-one. The new “normal” is that we live in a constant state of anxiety and uncertainty. 
 

 We are logical people and, understandably, like our Biblical ancestors, seek answers. Thus, the question asked of Jesus by his disciples seems appropriate: “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” (John 9: 2) The answer given by Jesus is very curious indeed: “Neither he nor his parents sinned; it is so that the works of God might be made visible through him.” (John 9:3)
 

The question arises for me in the light of that response: “How am I to see the work of God manifest in this current crisis?” Even as I ask that question, I recall the words of the Lord to Samuel who had come to Jesse’s family in Bethlehem to anoint a new king: “Not as man sees does God see, because man sees the appearance but the Lord looks into the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7) 

Lent has always been a time of introspection, purification, and enlightenment. Years ago, I was running along an abandoned railroad track. At one point, I came upon a dark tunnel. I could see light at the end and hear water dripping slowly, but was hesitant to enter. Something (or someone) told me to take the risk. Halfway through, I noticed a vigil candle burning in a little niche off to the side. I sensed I might not be alone and ran as fast as I could to the light. 

The man born blind risked not only the ridicule of the elders but also isolation from his family, expulsion from the temple, and possible persecution from the Romans. He accepted the challenge and encountered the Lord Jesus, in whom he placed his faith. Most of our challenges also pertain to the word “relationship.” What yet needs to be perfected in my relationships with (1) myself; (2) others; and (3) God? Recall the ancient baptismal prayer quoted by Paul and likely used as the new Christian emerged from the waters: “Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light.” (Ephesians 5:14)

 

Yours in Christ, our Light,

Father Bill Foley
 

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WISDOM OF CHARLES DE FOUCAULD