Last year in the peaceful comfort of my home, I reflected on conscience, relationships, suffering, and gratitude. Upon hearing of recent events in Ukraine, I realized now, how easy it was for me to speak of how Jesus provided a way to transcend suffering. It all seemed well and good as long as I wasn’t the one doing the suffering. This Lent, I feel compelled to embrace the suffering of others and as Thomas Aquinas or Bishop Robert Barron would say, “will the good of others”, especially those living in Ukraine.

As I’m writing this, millions of Ukrainians are crammed into bomb shelters in fear of their lives. Hauntingly reminiscent of the siege of Britain in WWII. Standing up against evil aggression is never easy. Others have fled from their homes seeking refuge in other countries. With all this uncertainty filling their minds, how can Ukrainians even begin to think of Lent or Easter? I am reminded that just as Christ endured the Cross to defeat evil, so may we be called to endure some hardship in our quest for justice and peace. As God was with the British people in WWII, I believe He is with the people of Ukraine today. God’s work can also be found in the Russians who are questioning and protesting the actions of their leader.

In the midst of all this suffering, God is planting seeds of faith where there is doubt, hope where there is despair, and love in minds overwhelmed by hate. A spirit of metanoia is piercing the hardened hearts and stubborn minds of many. As God’s light shines on evil doers and reveals the ugly truth of their intentions, more will witness a change of heart and discover a new paradigm for life. The people in darkness, who trust in God, will see a great light of comfort and consolation transforming their sadness into joy. 

I know this community is praying for a peaceful and swift resolution to this war. Know that sometimes God uses war to enforce His justice and forge a greater peace. As we pray this Lenten season, be alert to subtle stories in the news, that hint of God’s intervention. Courageous acts of mercy and Metanoia, like the Russian unit that surrendered to Ukrainian forces. 

Therefore, this Lenten season, pray for those who are actively engaged as modern-day instruments of God’s will and pray in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, that we become an instrument of God’s peace. As I conclude this reflection, I find myself reciting the lyrics of “City of God” a subtle reminder to add this song to my daily Lenten practice. 

De Colores - Frank 

City of God 
 

Awake from your slumber! Arise from your sleep! 

A new day is dawning for all those who weep. 

The people in darkness have seen a great light. 

The Lord of our longing has conquered the night. 

Let us build the city of God. 

May our tears be turned into dancing! 

For the Lord, our light and our love, 

has turned the night into day! 

We are sons of the morning; we are daughters of day. 

The One who has loved us has brightened our way. 

The Lord of all kindness has called us to be 

a light for his people to set their hearts free. 

God is life, in Him there is no darkness. 

Let us walk in his light, his children, one and all. 

O comfort my people; make gentle your words. 

Proclaim to my city the day of her birth. 
 

Oh, city of gladness, now lift up your voice 

Proclaim the good tidings that all may rejoice. 
 

Music link - City of God