Friday of the Fourth Week of Lent
WIS 2:1A, 12-22/JN 7:1-2, 10, 25-30
Today’s psalm reminds us that “the Lord is close to the brokenhearted; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves” reaffirming God’s faithfulness and the promise of his presence during trial. As we face the current crisis that is crushing the world, another promising text that I would like to share has been coming to my mind,
“Lo, I am about to create new heavens and a new earth; the things of the past shall not be remembered or come to mind. Instead, there shall always be rejoicing and happiness in what I create…No longer shall the sound of weeping be heard, or the sound of crying.” (Is, 65)
This beautiful reading reminds us of the hope that God’s love gives us, even in our most trying times. God asks us to look past the pain that we see and feel in this moment and rejoice in the goodness of each other and in the possibilities of the future, because he is creating a better future for us.
What a crucial and timely message for our community! I hope we pause and absorb this message of hope.
We are all facing anxiety, uncertainty and dread about the future. We are grieving losses and worried about the health of our loved ones and of our community.
Is there really a reason to be positive? God offers hope that we will get through the COVID-19 crisis. The hurt and suffering that is happening in our world is a temporary situation and there will be reason to rejoice. We need to be messengers of hope to each other and to those less fortunate.
At St. Thomas, we have always been an optimistic community. Our founder, Archbishop John Ireland was ever the optimist about our future when he said,
“I believe that God intends the present to be better than the past, and the future to be better than the present.”
Our positivity may be tested in the days to come. God will help us remember that this is when we need to be the messengers of hope and love.
President Sullivan reminded us in her State of the University address that today’s world needs gladness and inspiration, “We are living in a pessimistic time, and people are searching for something that transcends the demands of daily living. In short, the world is seeking joy and inspiration. The world needs voices of ethical reflection. The world needs hospitality and young people who are trained to provide for the needs of others. Because we embrace and integrate our Catholic mission, St. Thomas students are poised to provide “joy and inspiration and bring light to our world in need.”
As we embrace our new normal, and face anxious days ahead, may we embrace the call to be outward expressions of optimism and love. May we remember to hold and support one another. Our community can weather this storm together and bring hope to others.
Amy McDonough
Chief of Staff