A Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, we went about our lives in relative peace and happiness. We were able to attend Mass and worship the Lord without any restrictions. We planned for things like vacations, community events, baptisms and the coming together of family and friends for graduations and weddings. Many of us were preparing for summer picnics or spending time with friends at Lake Chelan. We didn’t really know how good we had it. We didn’t know that lurking just around the corner was disease, fear, shut-downs, and riots.
Something similar happened in the times of Noah. Jesus says in Matthew’s gospel, “in those days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day that Noah entered the ark” (Mt. 24:38). When the disastrous flood came, all those who had been living in willful ignorance of God and His plan, ended up suddenly suffering death and destruction.
What is God’s Plan for me during this pandemic? This could be a moment to grow in virtue. Am I being more patient? Am I taking the opportunity to get closer to the Scriptures to find out what God wants of me? Am I growing in the habit of prayer? Am I being thankful for the ways that Jesus is allowing me to see his presence in the midst of this suffering? Am I being hopeful and positive at all times? Am I using my time to get closer to my family and grow as a domestic church? Am I expressing trust and faith through everything I say and do? Am I learning how to be obedient to God through the Church? Have I accepted this cross as an opportunity to be a good follower of Jesus?
Living God’s plan in the midst of great difficulty helps us to find happiness. But often times it requires an act of the will within us. In that sense, happiness is within us. Happiness comes from the English word “Hap” which is to say, “fortune.” It is not about what you are surrounded with but rather who you are and what you have inside.
Let us use this opportunity to take willful, concrete steps to find happiness. Let us carry our cross as good disciples of Jesus and do not dismay. Let us consciously pray for a deeper trust in God. Even with COVID-19, we can find happiness and peace now and into our unknown future. God bless you all.
Sincerely,
Rev. Miguel González