Scripture:
Reflection:
If ever there was a person who had the right to complain to God, it was Job. The story of this upright and faithful man who lost all of it at the hand of the Evil One easily shocks us. Wasn’t it horribly unfair of God to let catastrophe befall Job?
We can say the same of Jesus, can’t we? Why did he suffer as he did?
Suffering and Justice are eternal mysteries that saints and scholars have wrestled with for millennia. There is, of course, no answer. There is only faith, remaining steadfast in knowing that we are the beloved of God. And when we are confronted by suffering and injustice, we might find some peace in praying the Anima Christi:
Soul of Christ, sanctify me.
Body of Christ, save me.
Blood of Christ, inebriate me.
Water from the side of Christ, wash me.
Passion of Christ, strengthen me.
O Good Jesus, hear me.
Within your wounds hide me.
Permit me not to be separated from you.
From the wicked foe, defend me.
At the hour of my death, call me
and bid me come to you
That with your saints I may praise you
For ever and ever. Amen.
Robert Hotz is a consultant with American City Bureau, Inc. and was the Director of The Passion of Christ: The Love That Compels Campaign for Holy Cross Province.