Memorial of Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus, Virgin and Doctor of the Church
Today’s first reading about Job reminded me of a book that I recently read. The book (“Everything Happens for a Reason and other Lies I’ve Loved” by Kate Bowler) is about a 35 year old married mother who finds out that she has stage 4 colon cancer. Kate (the author) was raised as an evangelical Christian whose faith was heavily influenced by the prosperity gospel mindset-a belief held by some Christians which asserts that by having a strong faith, God will deliver security and prosperity. Kate tries to come to grips with her devastating diagnosis through the eyes of faith. Even though Kate had been taught that if she had great faith all would be well, in the end what she realizes is that God’s love and His presence in the suffering are truly what provides hope for the journey.
In the first reading, the LORD comments about the righteousness of Job. Satan claims that Job’s strong faith is a result of the many blessings Job has been given. To test this theory, God allows Satan to take away Job’s children, animals, and all of his possessions. Despite this total devastation, Job still is able to say,” The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD!” The story progresses and Job continues to profess his belief in God and God’s faithfulness in spite of the great suffering he endures.
When I read this story, I often wonder where does Job find the ability to remain committed to God despite his great losses. As I reflect on Job’s trust in God, it seems that Job must have a deep seated understanding that God loves him. How else can you go forward in the face of complete ruin and still believe? In his deep respect for God, Job accepts all things realizing that God’s plan is to be trusted always.
When we look at Jesus, we see a man who also experienced great suffering in His passion and death. How does Jesus say “yes”? It is the great love of His Father that provides Him the courage to endure the great human misery He suffers. Jesus knows His Fatheri’s love, and He trusts that death and despair will not be the final answer.
We will all experience pain and loss as part of our lives. We may not experience the same extreme suffering that Job did, but even so, what allows us to remain faith-filled in the midst of darkness? Kate Bowler recounts that “when I was sure I was going to die, I didn’t feel angry, I felt loved.” She also shares, “At a time when I should have felt abandoned by God, I was not reduced to ashes, I felt like I was floating, floating on love and prayers…” Kate explains that the presence of God, or “the sweetness” as St. Augustine would call it, became the gift that allowed her to move forward knowing that in both the good and the bad- God is there. There is no special “formula” to follow to receive God’s blessing or prosperity. Kate recognizes God’s presence and love is always there.
Jesus shows us how to trust in the love of God in both our joys and sorrows through his passion and death. More importantly, Jesus reminds us that He is with us always- in all that we experience. To “be” with another person through life’s struggles and celebrations demonstrates great love. Jesus not only walks with us, but He understands what it means to be human. Although this does not remove our suffering, having a God who is with us, knows us, and loves us brings comfort and hope.
As disciples, we are called to be Christ for others as we accompany them through the ups, downs, and unknowns that life brings. By being a fellow pilgrim on the journey with our brothers and sisters, we bring the love of God to them and give them hope for their daily walk.
Experiencing death, illness, poverty, or loss does not mean that we have lost favor with God or in some way are lacking in faith. Our lives are colored with many hues of humanity, and through it all the light of Christ’s presence can shine through. When we recognize Christ and His love for us, we will know that even in the darkest hour we are not alone, and His light will guide our way.
Father, You love us more than we can imagine. Your Son, Jesus shows us how to trust in Your love even in the midst of difficult times. Send down Your Spirit so we can recognize your presence, and as you accompany us, may we accompany others and bring Your love and mercy to the world around us. We pray this through Christ, our LORD. Amen.
- Marylynn Herchline