Last week, my wife and I spent time adoring the Holy Eucharist at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, in San Antonio, Texas. The parish now has perpetual adoration! There was a chance of heavy rain and hail that night, but we thought we could still go and barely miss the storm.
God’s Peace in the Midst of Chaos
As soon as we walked into the chapel, however, we started to hear the whistles of winds from outside. Then, the lightening show premiered behind the stained-glass windows, and we heard the pounding of rain and thunder. In the violence of the storm, there was Jesus at the altar; peace, true patience, radiant love.
As I heard the sound of the whistling wind, I reflected on the words of Scripture regarding Pentecost. “And suddenly there came from the sky a noise like a strong driving wind, and it filled the entire house in which they were. Then there appeared to them tongues as of fire, which parted and came to rest on each one of them.” (Acts 2:1-4)
The Church Is Born for Mission
I love how we regard Pentecost as the birthday of the Church. Since that moment starts the mission of the Church: to go forth and preach the Gospel. Thus, the Church’s identity is found in her mission. Her birth is celebrated as the day she was first called to serve.
In the month of June this year, the Church celebrates two important truths: Pentecost and the Sacred Heart of Jesus. In both celebrations, we can reflect on the powerful wind of the Holy Spirit asking us for conversion and service, and the gentle heart of Jesus open to receive us.
The Sacred Heart is a testament of God’s love for us. Jesus spoke to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque and said to her: “My Divine Heart is so inflamed with love for men, and for you in particular that, being unable any longer to contain within Itself the flames of Its burning Charity, It must spread them abroad by your means, and manifest Itself to them (humankind) in order to enrich them with the precious graces of sanctification and salvation necessary to withdraw them from the abyss of perdition.”
Hope Through Storms and Mission
There is hope in our mission in life, because there is hope in God’s burning love for us, that it is more than anything we can even comprehend. Thus, this month reminds us of our purpose, our mission, and our destination.
As my wife and I left adoration that night, the rain continued, just as difficulties continue in life, but there was hope in our hearts. So we continue to go through life, even in the biggest storms. Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us!
Daniel Quintero is a stand-up comedian currently attending Mary, Mother of the Church Catholic Parish. His favorite motto: “Awkwardness does not exist.”
Pilgrim Center of Hope provides events, experiences, and media; initiating a desire in people to encounter Jesus Christ in their daily journey of life. See what’s happening & let us journey with you! Visit PilgrimCenterOfHope.org.
