In today's Mass readings, we again visit the Book of Job. Yesterday, Job, stripped of everything, responded by blessing the name of the Lord, but today the reality of what happened to him has sunk in.
"They wait for death and it comes not; they search for it rather than for hidden treasures." I hear Job expressing what we hear so many people say, particularly the elderly, the lonely, the abandoned, and the ill. An end to their suffering would be welcomed—to be set free, but it comes not.
The Psalmist continues Job's lament and voices for us what is heard or on many people's minds.
"O LORD, my God, by day I cry out...Let my prayer come before you...
Whom you remember no longer and who are cut off from your care."
Fortunately, in every age, there have been men like St. Vincent de Paul and religious women like the Daughters of Charity. Tens of thousands of lay men and women who volunteer for the St. Vincent de Paul charitable societies reach out and respond to the needs of the poor, the lonely, and the despondent. They are the disciples of Christ among us today in the same way that John and James, who walked with Jesus that day on the road to Jerusalem, entered a village but were not welcomed.
Followers of St. Vincent de Paul walk this earth today accompanied by the presence of Jesus within them as they reach out to others. Others sense that presence.
I am reminded of what those who volunteer for My Brother's Keeper do when they drop off food or furniture for those in need. A crucifix is presented along with the donations to remind the receiver that it is Christ who has actually made the gift possible.
Many souls today continue to grieve their losses in silence. But thanks be to God; some see the needs of others and respond. Affirming that indeed the Lord sometimes takes, but the Lord also gives.
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