For decades we in the United States have enjoyed the privilege of freedom of speech, as well as freedom of religion. Recently however, those freedoms are increasingly coming under attack. If you follow the news as reported by various Catholic news agencies, such as Catholic Online or Catholic Culture you know what I mean. How do we respond to the way our American society is changing? The freedoms we once took for granted are now deteriorating before our very eyes.
In a certain sense, we in America have been spoiled over the past 50-60 years. Our freedoms have been a source of envy to others in countries less fortunate than our own. Now we are being put to the test - how deeply rooted is our Catholic faith? There is a passage from the Old Testament book of Sirach that comes to mind: "My son, when you come to serve the Lord, prepare yourself for trials. Be sincere of heart and steadfast, undisturbed in time of adversity. Cling to him, forsake him not; thus will your future be great. Accept whatever befalls you, in crushing misfortune be patient; for in fire gold is tested, and worthy men in the crucible of humility. Trust God and he will help you" (Sir 2:1-6).
We are being tested in a number of ways. So-called abortion rights are being greatly expanded, while opposition is being squelched. The dignity of the human person and the family are continually being attacked, while anti-hate laws are being enacted to quiet any opposition. The Catholic Church herself is being attacked and belittled, as is the case in Connecticut and elsewhere.
Our natural inclination in the face of these attacks is anger. However, anger is rarely effective and can easily draw us into bitterness and resentment. The words of Scripture ring out to us "Be undisturbed in time of adversity... trust God and he will help you." It can be very difficult for us to follow this counsel. We have to dig deeply into our inner self, where God dwells and seek his strength - we must endure. "Come to me all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest" (Mt 11:28).
We really do not know how to respond to these tests, which will probably only get worse. Only in God can we find the strength and means to respond in a manner that, in some way, reflects God's presence in our words and actions. How often do we read in the Gospel how Christ responded or acted in ways that we did not expect or anticipate? Yet, Christ is our model; he is our example of holiness in the face of adversity and ridicule.
As our culture becomes more and more antagonistic towards Christianity, prayer and intimacy with Christ point the way to a true response. The American way, or the way of Christ? It is up to each of us to choose with greater conviction, and to follow our Master.
Deacon Ray,
Thank you for your words of wisdom they are very needed and greatly appreciated.
Take care and God bless,
Inocencio
J+M+J
Posted by: Inocencio | June 27, 2009 at 10:09 PM