Feast of St. Joseph – What I Miss…

March 19, 2020

I have heard the comment, “What I missed during this time, _______ .“ (fill in the blank). Think of what it will be like when once again we can meet, when some sense of normalcy returns.

Yesterday I came face-to-face on what I miss. I stood on top of the stair landing calling down to one of our young students, her dad, and the dog. This young lady’s smile can light up the world, and it was then I realized: I miss the young ones. If you would be so kind to humor once again my song selection, this one from George Strait, “I Saw God Today.”

I’ve been to church, I’ve read the book

I know He’s here, but I don’t look near as often as I should.

Yeah I know I should.

His fingerprints are everywhere

I just look down and stop and stare, open my eyes and then I swear

I SAW GOD TODAY

At the school there are times, too infrequent to tell the truth, when I can go up on the playground and spend time with the students. The little ones and I have a game on the playground structure in which I try to stop their coming down the slide. They use all sorts of methods and gimmicks to try and pass by successfully. It is their triumph in fooling father, the look of pure happiness in their eyes, the laughter in their voices, that leap of joy that I miss the most.

I have to believe that laughter, that joy must be the expression on God’s face when He looks upon you and me. Where else would such beauty come from if not from the one who created us in His own very image. Yes, there is a great deal we miss but one very important part of our lives that remains: God is here today. “Just stop and stare and then you will swear, YOU SAW GOD TODAY!”

Please continue to keep our healthcare workers, the first responders, those working to stem the spread or find a cure in your prayers today. Also, our elderly: they have given us a great gift, a lesson we should take to heart. Many live alone, have understood isolation and solitude, and yet give us an example of how to live each day. So many seniors in their homes or in care homes are even more secluded NOW for their protection. Let us not forget their example of faith, hope, and love.

The Wandering Padre

Fr. Dave