Facing the Crucible
Written by Rev. Dr. Scott Paczkowski
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. ”
We jump into 2022 with yet more apprehension. Rather than pretend we are not in a pandemic, each of us needs to face the burden head-on. Ronald Rolheiser, in his book Sacred Fire, announces, “that wisdom is generally learned in the crucible of struggle.” Rather than ignore struggle at any cost, the Holy Spirit often uses life’s clashes to impart guidance. Rolheiser described it beautifully when he writes, “We mature by meeting life, just as God and nature design it, and accepting there the invitations that beckon us ever deeper into the heart of life itself.” Rolheiser’s quote sounds all well and good, but it takes courage and a willingness to sacrifice and accept the invitation to move even deeper into the crucible.
My wife dons her N95 mask each morning and enters the elementary school full of sick children and staff. I cannot remember a week when there was no one with Covid for whom she cared. Our phone rings at night, with scared staff and parents asking for advice. Taking their calls after the last bell rings each day is not part of her job description but is part of her calling as a nurse and person of faith. What is inspiring is that Jill is far from the only person who walks into the Crucible of Covid each day.
As people of faith, we are called to face the world with courage and intelligence. People who deny the virus’ power and refuse to get vaccinated are walking into a crucible, but not in the way God intended. There is nothing brave or faithful about denying vaccinations. God wants us to live, and if we are to sacrifice, to do so, having taken every precaution necessary to preserve the life God has given us. Therefore, the most faithful, noble thing we can do in the crucible of Covid is to get vaccinated and continue to wear a mask.
Today, ask God to give us the courage to face the Covid crucible with courage and intelligence. Christ-like compassion takes on a new form in this unique crucible. Love others by getting vaccinated, wearing a mask, and reaching out with care when appropriate. Love is in short supply. The more we can show mutual respect and dignity to others around us, the less threatening the crucible becomes. Do your part to address Covid and trust the Holy Spirit to provide new opportunities for care and healing.
