Mthr. Natalia, a thoughtful mother with deep theological insights, shares reflections from a recent Mass at the Monastery. She discusses the intriguing idea of Mary and John’s seemingly useless presence at the cross. Instead of merely enduring suffering, she emphasizes that the true aim is union with God. Mthr. Natalia also highlights the importance of supporting those in pain rather than trying to solve their struggles and encourages viewing suffering as an opportunity to encounter the divine.
Being present with those who suffer often means offering companionship rather than trying to solve their issues, exemplified by Mary and John at the cross.
The journey towards union with God involves embracing suffering thoughtfully, allowing grace to transform pain into a vital part of one's faith journey.
Deep dives
The Useless Presence of Love
Being present with those who suffer does not always involve solving their problems, but rather offering companionship during their hardships. The concept of 'useless presence of love' underscores the importance of simply being there for others, as illustrated by Mary and John at the foot of the cross, who could not alleviate Jesus' suffering but remained steadfast in their support. Mother Natalia reflects on this idea of suffering together rather than trying to eliminate another's pain, emphasizing that true love often means enduring the struggle alongside someone. This perspective encourages individuals to support others in their suffering without feeling the need to take away their crosses.
Understanding the Role of Suffering
The ultimate goal in life's journey is not to avoid suffering but to achieve union with God, which can be attained through embracing suffering thoughtfully. Mother Natalia challenges the notion that either suffering or the avoidance of it should be the primary focus, as both extremes can undermine one's spiritual growth. Instead, she posits that individuals should allow God to use their suffering for good while accepting that pain can be a crucial part of their faith journey. By inviting grace into their suffering experiences, individuals can cultivate a deeper relationship with the divine, realizing that union with God transcends the dualities of suffering and non-suffering.
Mother talks about a thought from a recent Mass at the Monastery about the uselessness of Mary and John at the cross. She talks about the point is not to not suffer, but neither is suffering.