Holy Mother of God, pray for us in our time of great need

Who would have thought a few weeks ago that we would be hearing the words “social distancing,” “self-isolation” or “quarantine”? First, not being able to share the sign of peace at Mass and then not being able to attend Holy Mass, much less not being able to receive the precious Body of our Lord Jesus in the most sacred Eucharist.

We are certainly living in trying times. I’m sure the apostles felt the same way while waiting for the Lord’s Resurrection. They hid in fear, for they didn’t know what to expect.

Even though we may not understand that not gathering in large groups will actually save lives, we do so out of charity for others. We are all trying to understand that our bishops in the country are doing their best with their decisions for the good of the people of God, and we accept their guidance in obedience.

Isn’t it a contradiction of the theology of the Incarnation not being able to come together in any type of faith gathering? After all, God came from heaven to dwell among us. It hurts not being able to embrace one another, and more devastating those infected, dying alone without their loved ones.

With so much uncertainty, we are all searching for answers. I’ve learned that in the spiritual life, “Why?” is the only question God doesn’t seem to answer. I’ve also learned that God does have the answer. The answer is Jesus. God became and is one of us in Jesus who dwells among us even though we are not able to receive him in the Eucharist.

For us Catholics, we often find the answers in the trying faith of the saints. St. Padre Pio reminds us: “Place your heart gently in Our Lord’s wounds. Have great confidence in His mercy for He will never abandon you.”

Even though we feel sad about not being able to receive Holy Communion, eucharistic adoration or confession, we feel a tremendous sense of loss. Like there is something missing in our lives.

Perhaps it will be an opportunity to appreciate the sacraments more deeply, as we hunger and look forward in joyful anticipation to when we will gather once again awaiting the Lord’s Resurrection.

Most of all, it gives us the opportunity during this time of “shelter in place” or “quarantine” to gather and pray united as family; the rosary, Stations of the Cross, the Angelus, or the Salve Regina. Lectio Divina helps us reflect on the daily gospel or to pray the Liturgy of the Hours “Divine Office,” especially (lauds) morning and (vespers) evening prayer.

Many have mentioned this has been an unforgettable Lent, a true desert experience a time for great sorrow for all the lives lost. I’ve reminded those whom have shared feeling, distraught that we must never forget the Blessed Virgin Mary at the foot of the cross. I’m sure she was devastated and heartbroken, weeping and in deep sorrow. However, she stood strong by the side of her son, her arms embracing, holding on to the cross.

The Blessed Mother at the Crucifixion probably felt incapable and could do nothing for her son suffering and dying for us on the cross, except to be by his side. Surely at that moment she remembered the words of Simeon: “And you yourself a sword will pierce your soul, so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed” (Luke 2:35).

Mother Mary comes to our aid to be by our side in our time of great need. She intercedes for us daily, to whom we seek her refuge when we pray: “Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.”

At the moments we feel anxious and afraid, when we need to calm our fears; when our heart needs to be soothed, let us find some comfort and solace in the words of St. Teresa of Avila. She wrote a poem which has become a devotional prayer:

“Let nothing disturb you, let nothing frighten you, all things will pass away. God never changes; patience obtains all things, whoever has God lacks nothing. God alone suffices. Amen.”

Let’s be mindful that in the end, we are all beggars in need of God’s mercy. May the good and gentle Jesus, healer of our souls, bring healing to our world and restore it to good health.

Deacon Luis Zuniga is the director of the Office for Pastoral Planning & San Juan Diego Ministry Institute.