The Virus "Stay at Home" - 30 Day Retreat - Day 3

In the Los Angeles Times, there was an article describing the heroic work of outreach workers who daily walk the streets to help the homeless.  These amazing people may not think of themselves as missionaries – but they are.  Actions speak so much louder than words.  As we shelter in place, our prayers can go up to God asking Him to bless the heroes in our streets, and in our hospitals, and first responders.  We can share in their mission through our prayers. 

St Therese of Lisieux wanted with all her heart to be a missionary, but it was not God's plan for her life. As she was a cloistered Carmelite nun, Therese’s vocation was a call to prayer within the convent walls. Many of us who are “cloistered” in our own homes due to the Coronavirus are being called to imitate St. Therese.  Instead of going out into the world, God is calling us to use this time of confinement to pray for the good work of others.

In Saint Peter's first letter, he wrote:  My dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful test you are suffering, as though something unusual was happening to you. Rather be glad that you are sharing Christ's sufferings, so that you may be full of joy when his glory is revealed. 1 Peter 4: 12-14

All of us are being asked to cooperate through this time of isolation for the common good. Those of us who have faith can pray for God's mercy, and encourage those around us to be brave. Now is not a time for despair.  It is time to put our faith to good use.  This is not a crisis anyone wants, but this crisis can show to the world how Christians respond. It is time to demonstrate what being a Christian means.  To display the joy of the Lord in our attitude toward this challenge.

Prayer
In silent prayer, contemplate how completely alive God is and how completely He gives Himself to you.  Meditate on a God who is the breath of life, who gives life and restores life. Find peace in knowing of His love for you - and share it.

Action
Reach out to someone experiencing fear with a reassuring word.
Pray for those who are sacrificing their safety to help others.
Pray for Fr. Joe's Village, Catholic Charities, the San Diego Food Bank and other frontline organizations.  Pray for the homeless and those who in this time of trial are helping them.