| Virginia Harris, C.S.B. – Be a Helper-Healer |
Posted: 15 Apr 2013 06:53 PM PDT
‘When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’ — Mister Rogers
What wise and comforting words for all of us in times of tragedy, such as the horrific events at the Boston Marathon. Doesn’t this gently turn our eyes from the terrible images on the news to ones of care, compassion, and selflessness — often in the same tv or computer screen? By doing this, ever so subtly, we are choosing to focus on all that is good not evil — all that represents love not terror.
And then, as we linger gratefully on the helpers, we are better prepared to be helpers and healers too, by offering our deepest prayers of loving support for the affected families, their loved ones, and Boston’s selfless first-responders. Every prayer is needed, every prayer helps and heals.
When you are tempted to sink into a slough of questions or despair, pause — stand instead with the helpers in Boston and be a witness to the power of Love to minister to the wounded, comfort the fearful, and guide those who will correct the injustice.
The Psalmist, who knew first-hand the effects of terror, offers this timeless message of the supreme power to protect and comfort, especially in moments of devastation.
“He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.
Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.
He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;
Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.
…For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.” —Psalm 91