St. Paul had reached the peak of human achievement. He was privileged politically and socially as a Roman citizen, and he held religious and moral authority as a Pharisee and student of the great rabbi Gamaliel. Yet, he describes all this achievement as “rubbish.” What did St. Paul truly value?

In his conversion, Paul came to appreciate his relationship with Christ as his highest priority and greatest treasure. It wasn’t that Paul claimed Jesus; rather, the Lord took “possession” of him. This new calling led Paul to embrace great sacrifice and endure suffering—a suffering that was not in vain. Instead, it became a transformative power, drawing others into a meaningful relationship with the Lord, offering hope and inspiration.

As the Church delves deeper into Lent with Passiontide, we approach the invitation to come to the foot of the cross. At this darkest place on earth, at the moment of greatest loss, the light of Christ shines the brightest. Though we are unworthy of such an honor, the Lord’s mercy overshadows us. Like the woman caught in adultery, we are sinners; we cling to what destroys us and fear justice. Yet, instead of addressing our judgment, Jesus recklessly extends an offer of mercy. The price of this forgiveness, necessary to satisfy justice, is the cross.

In the coming weeks, let us encourage each other to embrace suffering with courage. We are not alone in this journey. By uniting with Christ, we discover a community of support and understanding. Our sacrifices matter, even though they may seem insignificant compared to the gift of Jesus. This Wednesday, April 9, from 7:00 to 8:30 pm in the church, we are excited to conclude our Divine Mercy Study by welcoming Sr. Donata Farbaniec from the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy, the same religious order to which St. Faustina belonged when she received her profound revelations of Divine Mercy from our Lord. Sr. Donata will deliver an engaging and inspiring talk, deepening our understanding of this beautiful devotion and how it can transform our lives.

This Sunday also marks the Jubilee of the Sick and Health Care Workers. In this Jubilee Year of Hope, we celebrate the heroic witness of those who are ill. St. Teresa of Calcutta recognized the power inherent in suffering and often implored those struggling with health issues to offer their suffering to the Lord for the sake of her community’s work. Let us pray for those afflicted in body, mind, or soul, and seek not just physical healing but the salvation of souls. May the Lord also guide the hands of our medical professionals, first responders, counselors, chaplains, and all caregivers whose ministry affirms the value and dignity of every human life.