In a time of plague and suffering, Matthias Grunewald painted a number of Crucifixion scenes showing the body of Christ wounded with sores like those of the people. In these anguished images, the people could see a graphic representation of the union of their suffering with Christ’s, and His suffering with their own pain.
Today Our Lord is with us in our suffering as well: with those who may actually be sick with the coronavirus, but also with the many more who are suffering simply from fear of sickness, from lack of access to Mass or the sacraments, from the disruption of daily life.
We have been praying for all around the world, for health and safety, and especially that this type of event will make everyone think about their own mortality and the need to consider the health of their souls and prepare for eternity. Certainly this Lent is unfolding in a way we did not expect, but we still strive to live it by fulfilling the first words of Jesus in His public ministry: “Do penance, and believe in the gospel!”
[We also wish to pass on the message that Magnificat is offering free online access (click here) to help those who are not able to attend Mass due to closures with the coronavirus pandemic.]
An Act of Spiritual Communion
The practice of making a Spiritual Communion can help keep us united to Christ in times such as these. The following prayer comes from the tradition of the Dominican Sisters of the Perpetual Rosary.
O Jesus, we believe in Thee, we hope in Thee, we love Thee; we are extremely sorry for having offended Thee; we desire Thee to come into our hearts through Mary; we unite and attach ourselves to Thee; let us never be separated from Thee. Amen.