You’ve heard rags-to-riches stories. Today, we celebrate the reverse.
James of Oldo was born into a well-to-do family near Milan in 1364. He married a woman who like him, appreciated the comforts that came with wealth. But an outbreak of the plague drove James, his wife, and their three children out of their home and into the countryside. Despite those precautions, two of his daughters died from the plague. James determined to use whatever time he had left to build up treasures in heaven and to build God’s realm on earth.
He and his wife became Secular Franciscans. James gave up his old lifestyle and did penance for his sins. He cared for a sick priest, who taught him Latin. Upon the death of his wife, James himself became a priest. His house was transformed into a chapel where small groups of people, many of them fellow Secular Franciscans, came for prayer and support. James focused on caring for the sick and for prisoners of war. He died in 1404 after contracting a disease from one of his patients. James Oldo was beatified in 1933.
Reflection
The death of those we love brings a troubling awareness of our own mortality. James had that experience when he gazed into a friend’s grave, and it brought him to his senses. He determined to use whatever time he had left to build up treasures in heaven and to build God’s realm on earth. Our time is limited, too. We can use it well or foolishly: The choice is ours.
St. Francis of Assisi was medieval to his core, yet his problems were not dissimilar to what we face today: ongoing health crises, civil instability, emotional desolation, and deep anguish. But once he stripped himself of all things worldly, Francis understood that no wound was beyond God’s ability to heal.
In a letter Francis wrote to Brother Leo, an early friar, his salutation should be on the lips of everyone who loves those suffering in mind or spirit: “May God smile on you and be merciful to you. May God turn his regard toward you and give you peace.”
Good Friday is the most holy of days: The Veneration of the Cross is stark and sorrowful, yet so full of pure adoration from ordinary people. No matter where we are in the liturgical year, we can keep in our hearts the images from Holy Week to renew us. Today, reflect on the feelings and insights you have had on Good Friday.
Pray
Jesus, Let us remember all year long the mystical, holy beauty of your people lining up to greet the cross, so tenderly. The intimacy of witnessing so many touching the cross with fingertips or lips. Kiss after kiss. Then turning, humbled heads bowed. Today, like all days, no matter the season, we seek you as we walk. Let us take our steps toward your love—each step, everywhere.
Act
How can you touch the cross today? Do you have a special crucifix in your home or perhaps the cross on your rosary? Spend some time with it, feeling love, finding peace.
Today's Pause+Pray was written by Maureen O'Brien. Learn more here!
