By Chaplain Joy Le Page Smith, MA

 

On an early Sunday morning, while away from home, I pondered with awe the beauty throughout the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.

Numerous things there spoke of the power and the presence of God. The hardness of marble altars, stone floors and wooden pews spoke of strength. Then I looked at the people. They were soft. Vessels of earthen clay, yet filled with spirit.

Many shy away from being called “soft.” But the softness I saw was holy. That which makes us vulnerable, malleable and capable of love.

Back home this truth was clearly seen when I visited the home of friends who had just lost their 24-year-old son in death. Neighbors, family and friends from their parish came, some with arms loaded with food. Many offered prayers from caring hearts. And as they left each carried away a piece of the pain. So much pain to be borne there in that home. Yet the grieving family knew through the people that they would not be bearing this alone. The softness of human love left its impact, as love in action extended strength.

At times like this we often feel inept. Words may seem inadequate. But what we do have to give is enough–empathy, wrapped in flesh. In 2 Corinthians 12:10, after experiencing multiple, grievous trials—almost losing his life for his faith— the Apostle Paul wrote of his experience, “For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

How can this happen?  Because of our dependence on the Lord, rather than on ourselves. The Apostle Paul exhibited this throughout the letters he left for all believers who follow “the way,” which Christ revealed through His teachings.

When we see a fellow human hurting physically or emotionally something incredible occurs. There is an inner urging to stop–set aside what we are doing–and go. Be there.” It is love in action, coming from the treasure of one’s heart. Tears convey release, as solace is received. Such “holy water” grants clear vision that this love, as it flows from others, is a healing force.

So here we are, humans, ideally all “soft covers”—no “hardbacks.” Fragile, destined for much wear and tear. Yet, for the most part durable beyond we think we are. Filled with strength, having quite enough to share.

People . . . Earth’s richest resource, Vessels deemed worthy by God to carry His love. A love experienced most vividly when seen flowing from one to another. Oh—how we need one another.

We will endure grievous trials during our lives. 1 Peter 1:7, portrays how it is through these hardships that our faith comes forth “much more precious than gold that is tested by fire.” And, as faith grows we learn to lean more and more fully into the loving, healing heart of God.

We are loved. And, we give love to God through caring for others . . . along with our prayers of thanksgiving, gratitude and praise to the Creator of us all.

About the author: Joy Le Page Smith is a Board certified clinical chaplain. Her articles and blogs are read in 32 countries. Joy’s four books are available on her home page at Healing-with-Joy.com where readers can view her children’s book titled, The Little Mountain Goat Who Was Afraid of High Places.