The Acceptable Time

“Behold, now is the acceptable time; now is the day of salvation.” (2 Corinthians 6:1,2)
That is how Lent begins.

But, is it an “acceptable” time when we are struck down by catastrophe, anxiety, or doubt? When a pandemic hits the entire world, we can recognize at what point we become vulnerable and unsteady about that which we cannot control. The power of nature seems stronger than the power of science. Sometimes, there is panic. Fear presses us towards someone or something which can bring a feeling of security to our lives.

We feel powerless, we lack words, we remain mute. Christians are downcast because they cannot go to church, while others are in mourning, have lost their jobs, or are disturbed by the imbalances in the world economy even after the crisis. Now, I am a priest, and even I ask myself about the secrets of the mysteries of God. Has our world lost its way towards the One who is the Author of all life?

Even if it is impossible to gather in church, let us remember and put into practice what Jesus asked us to do. “When you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” (Matthew 6:6) That is how I came to appreciate that the word of God is not a dead word, but remains a living word for today. The Bible is not outdated, it remains contemporary. “‘Come, my people, enter your chambers, and shut your doors behind you; hide yourselves for a little while until the wrath is past.” (Isaiah 26:20)

May this, our cry rise to the heavens: “Jesus, you are the Messiah, the Savior of the world.” “A poor soul cried, and was heard by the Lord, and was saved from every trouble.” (Psalm 33:6)

I pray for all of you who fear, who experience loss and sorrow. Do not be afraid. He is Victor over the World. May the Lord bless you and protect you against all danger from the evil one.

Amen
Farther Jérôme José, CSC