Friday, XXII Week of Ordinary Time
(I Colossians)
An icon of Christ hangs in a Benedictine monastery in Oceanside, California. It describes with visual images what the first reading relates with words. Christ is clothed in white like a new-born infant or, more to the point, like one appearing in glory. His wounds are covered with stars to show that he was dead but has come back to life. On the halo surrounding his head are the Greek letters ho on which mean “the (one) being” above all others. He has a compassionate face with eyes that seem to see to the bottom of the soul looking at him. His torso glimpsed by an opening in the white cloth is strong but not overpoweringly arrogant. He poises his right hand to make a blessing or, perhaps, a judgment. His left hand holds a book, obviously the Scriptures, with just one word shown pax (peace), showing that he has reconciled all things to himself. Seated on a throne with a with a blue pedestal indicated royalty, he leaves the impression of ruling over the whole world, especially its largest entity, the Pacific Ocean.
Christ commands our confidence. Sometimes tossed by the vagaries of life we waver in our allegiance. We have to cling to him with steadfast love. Recently writings left by Mother Teresa have revealed that she also was not spared doubts and inner turmoil. Yet she remained loyal to Christ to the end of her life. Each day she rose for meditation at 4:30 a.m. Even in fame and old age she did not cease tending to the needs of the poorest. As already evidenced by miracles in her name, Christ has brought her home to eternal life.
