Ripples in the Water 

   “I alone cannot change the world.  But I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.” (St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta) 

   St. Mother Teresa certainly caused ripples in the waters.  She moved to Calcutta to care for the poor and dying in a non-Christian nation and yet she saw Christ in each one she cared for.  At the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C., in 1994, before many national politicians, including President Clinton, she did not hesitate to tell them, “Any country that accepts abortion is not teaching its people to love, but to use any violence to get what they want.  This is why the greatest destroyer of love is abortion.”

   Like Mother Teresa, we can’t change the world.  But we can cast a stone across the water, creating ripples.  If we are adamant in what we expect of our politicians, we can begin to turn the tide against abortion, euthanasia, and other abominations that some see as politically expedient.

   If we respectfully and prayerfully challenge our priests, bishops, and even the Pope to remain faithful to the teaching of Christ perhaps we can eliminate some of the heretical offerings we now hear so much about.  If more of them would preach to the horror and cost of sin rather than trying to be the “church of nice” to keep people in the pews, there could be a renewal of faith in the Church that would amaze.

   Even in our own families there are opportunities to cause a few ripples.  No one wants to destroy family relationships, but gentle reminders of our faith are, I believe, very proper.  St. Monica prayed for many years for the conversion of her son, St. Augustine and her prayers were answered.  Our prayers for our children do not go unheard, and even though we may not see it in our lifetime, can change their hearts.

   So, pick up a few stones and skip them across the waters.  Create the ripples that may help us revitalize and re-catechize the Church.

 

Father, give us the courage to speak always of our faith and love for You.  Open hearts to Your love and mercy.  Amen