At all times, praise the Lord

The second psalm for Lauds (Morning Prayer) on the Sunday, Week I of the Psalter is taken from the book of the Prophet Daniel, and reminds us that all works of the Lord should bless the Lord at all times.

Blessing and praising the Lord is easy when life goes well. Even the discipline of prayer, conversation with God, is almost effortless when it entails songs and canticles of praise, or when there is reason for celebration, but at darker moments in life (and there are always such moments), it's more of a challenge to find a reason to be thankful.

Last weekend, the Holy Father accepted the resignation of one of the Canadian bishops. This came as a surprise to many, who could only guess at the motives behind such an action. As the week has unfolded, more details have unfolded, and the picture that is being painted leaves some wondering, others shaking their heads, and still others brought to their knees.

It's true that at moments of greatest trial, we are often reminded of our own fragility, and of the necessity for prayer and guidance. Listening for the counsel we seek is not always an easy task, especially if our minds are clouded or reeling from the plethora of questions that the human heart poses, yet this is exactly what we must do. While the systems of justice and government must also take their course, the best, most appreciated gift that we can offer is our prayer.

When the clouds are thickest, when the fog prevents us from seeing clearly, when there seems to be nothing on the horizon but more storms, it is difficult to believe that prayer can be efficacious, but it is precisely in times of doubt that faith is tested and strengthened. The fruits of this newest challenge will only be known in time. In the meanwhile, let us come in faith before the Lord, remembering those who suffer most, supporting them with our silent entreaties and supplications, and trusting that this too is a moment for giving thanks ... a moment of great grace.