Tuesday, December 24, 2019

In the presence of powerlessness and innocence (Fr. Ron Rolheiser OMI)


  God’s work in our world generally does not make the headlines.  God never breaks into our world or into our consciousness by showy displays of power.  God works more discretely, in quiet, touching soul, touching conscience, and touching that previously touched part inside of us where we still unconsciously bear the memory of once, long before birth, being touched, caressed, and loved by God. That’s why Christ was born into this world as a baby and not as a superstar, as someone whose only power was the capacity to touch and soften the hearts of those around him.  Babies overpower no one, physically, intellectually, or athletically.  They lie helpless and cry for love and care.  That’s why, paradoxically, at the end of the day, they’re more powerful than anyone else.  No physical, intellectual, or athletic power can ultimately touch the human conscience as can a baby – and similar sights of innocent helplessness, a wounded bird, an abandoned kitten, a young child alone and crying.  What’s best in us enflames, healthily, in the presence of powerlessness and innocence.
--Fr. Ron Rolheiser OMI, Outside the City
December 12, 2018


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