Paul - a Voice for All

It strikes me that every day holds the possibility of a catechism in the Way, seemingly ground up, where one's faith is re-tuned in an aspect of the Word, our Lord, Jesus Christ.

While yesterday was somewhat bleak - I was feeling exhausted, is all - this morning I made a point of praying the Divine Office, which included Paul's admonition in 2 Corinthians, that Strength is made perfect in weakness. This was of course the Lord's directions to Paul as he struggled with the "thorns in his flesh." Which is to say, that Paul had been given what he needed to fight the good fight.

I have thought of this notion of sufficiency, if I may call it that, many, many times, with reference to the visions I have been granted, knowing somehow that the Lord was giving me only what I needed to do what he wanted me to do. The rest is up to me. I hardly need to point out, yet again, that any vision or message from God is just an incredible blessing - given our faith and the Eucharist, who could want for more?

And yet, every day, like the creation in Genesis, is a day made new by the Lord. And miracles - the Word - surrounds us, if only we open our eyes and let our hearts read the message. If the Lord provides...extracurricular (!) instruction...it is to direct us to specific works and mission.

I posted on Facebook that Paul's statements could be the anthem of our time. So many individuals and groups are struggling to be heard and understood; wile so many other individuals and groups appear dedicated to pursing personal, self-serving agendas. For the former, Paul's statement is a call to arms (in my view) - an incitement we have seen borne out in history as the underrepresented, the oppressed, rise despite their weakness in the world to make themselves known and to change the world. Was not Jesus' mission one of representing the poor, the sick, the oppressed?

And for the powerful, Paul's statement is an admonition, that one must, MUST be humble in one's power. That such graces are the gift of the Lord and should be made to serve all mankind. Especially those who have no voice, or power. Our Lord was quite clear n this point, I need hardly point out.

Have no doubt. Make no mistake. The Lord will bless, and test. The tests may be active pain or mere vacancy, a feeling of desertion. This is not to say that all pain is "the will of God." That is a regrettable (if, in some cases, quite understandable!) misunderstanding and misapplication, which I will address at some point. But I will say this, that the Lord and his powers, the Angels and Saints, including especially the Blessed Mother, Mary, surround us night and day. God is as close to us as our merest interior voice will allow. His capacities are infinite, immediate, and perfect.

They are yours, my friends, to call to. Any time it occurs to you to do so.