Adversity is a part of life. We may face family strife or financial issues. We may experience a personal or family medical crisis. We may suffer the loss of a loved one.
The thought of not being able to attend Mass to receive the Precious Body and Blood of our Lord as a result of a crisis — such as the one we are experiencing today with the COVID-19 pandemic — is devastating.
Right now, it may seem challenging to remain a faithful steward. We may even question our faith and wonder how to find God during these turbulent times.
Where do we turn?
First and foremost, we must pray without ceasing. During a difficult time, you can always turn to the Church’s treasury of prayer. Take time each day to read the daily Scripture readings — they can be found at USCCB.org, and then by selecting the date on the calendar on the home page. You can also use the many rich resources of our faith to engage in spiritual reflections each day as an individual and with your family. This can include simple prayers like an Our Fatherand Hail Mary a few times a day, as well as praying the Rosary, the Liturgy of the Hours, and Stations of the Cross, among others. Many resources for these are easily found online.
It is also important to remember that at times when you cannot physically attend Mass, Sunday remains a holy day, and you are encouraged to pray. You can participate in prayer by way of televised or live-streamed Mass — one option for viewing daily Mass online can be found at www.wordonfire.org/daily-mass.
During times of crisis, we must also find ways to use our talents to serve God. If you are unable to participate in ministries and serve your parish community, you can still use your talents to serve your family and those closest to you. Something as simple as calling to check on family and friends — or even doing a video call — can go a long way.
Finally, we must try to remain good stewards of our treasure. You may have lost your job or have seen a reduction in work hours and pay. But despite your hardships, a faithful steward must faithfully try his or her best to return a portion of your treasure to God however He is calling you to do so. Check the parish website for online giving opportunities and do what you can to return a portion of your treasure to God.
No matter the situation, God always remains faithful to us. Don’t forget that everything God gives us is a gift, and the way in which we share our gifts with God and our neighbor is ultimately how we give Him glory.
