On this Fifth Sunday of Lent here is a challenge from one of my favorite spiritual writers, Trappist monk Thomas Merton.
“The desert is the home of despair. And despair, now, is everywhere. Let us not think that our interior solitude consists in the acceptance of defeat. We cannot escape anything by consenting tacitly to be defeated. Despair is an abyss without bottom. Do not think to close it by consenting to it and trying to forget you have consented.
This, then, is our desert: to live facing despair, but not to consent. To trample it down under hope in the Cross. To wage war against despair unceasingly. That war is our wilderness. If we wage it courageously, we will find Christ at our side.”
Thomas Merton (“Thoughts in Solitude”)
Here’s to waging war against despair with courage and hope from the Presence of Jesus next to us, above us, below us, around us and within our hearts.
grace, peace & courageous Hope
Virginia : )
Roses in the Rubble 
I liked this post very much Virginia. Very apt for current pandemic situation.
Thank you, GH. It’s hard to keep our hopes up in this COVID-19 desert, but flexing our courage muscles to do what we can (prayer inclusive) helps. Pls stay safe, GH! Blessings & hugs! ☀️🤗☀️
Lots of love!
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Merton is always good to read and quote.
As a huge Merton groupie, I totally agree with you, Kenneth. I read stacks of his books years ago, but going through them again today there’s always more to take in. Blessings! 🌟📚🌟
You would like my parish’s library, of which I am the custodian. The Merton section is extensive.
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So beautifully said…. Diane
Thank you, Diane. You have been in my thoughts & prayers. Please be safe. May God continue to give you strength & healing graces. Much love! ✨☀️🙏☀️✨
Thanks Virginia… Diane