There was hope
I recently attended a regional gathering on immigration. Various emotions rose in my heart as I heard of conditions in detention centers and how racial profiling, once forbidden, is now approved and more.
I thought of the people who lived before Jesus’ time who were subjected to injustice, slavery, and a lack of compassion. Still, they hoped something would change. They heard that the Messiah would come and fulfill Isaiah’s words from today’s first reading: “No longer shall the sound of weeping be heard there, or the sound of crying; Instead, there shall always be rejoicing and happiness in what I create.”
I wondered if they asked the same questions I ask today: “When will this end, Lord? When will we all see each other like brother and sister? When will the injustice stop? When will you come and rescue us?” I imagine that you might ask similar questions too.
Brothers and sisters, despite the desperation around us, trust that there are signs of heaven on earth. A priest once reminded me to think of things like: a couple at the altar ready to say “I do;” the birth of a child welcomed into their parents’ arms; a family who smiles at you as they receive a warm meal; a person who looks at you with tenderness as they receive shelter, water, or an item of clothing; a child taking their first steps towards you; a young graduate proud of their accomplishments; a person who hugs you with love as you comfort them during a hard time; a couple celebrating their golden years of marriage.
I invite you to think of such things as well. Jesus Christ is present in spite what we see around us. He made the dead come to life! He CAN do anything!
Amidst the difficult discussions at our immigration gathering, there was hope. Hope from stories of people being helped and walking away from detention centers towards freedom. For me, seeing a room filled with people who care about this cause was HOPEFUL! Hearing professionals equipping us with ways we can support and help others in this situation was HOPEFUL! Being in solidarity was HOPEFUL!
I pray that you can share this same hope too.
Dulce Valdez is the Director of Parish and Community Engagement at Catholic Charities Community Services in the Diocese of Phoenix. She serves as Chair for CCUSA’s Parish Social Ministry Leadership Team.