WORKS OF MERCY - PRESENCE
There is nothing comfortable about sitting with someone who is sick. To do so is often unsanitary, boring, and inconvenient. In the midst of the other person’s suffering, your presence may feel unappreciated or even useless. But God tells us otherwise.
Notice that this particular work of mercy doesn’t say to “cure the sick” or even to “care for the sick.” We are simply called to “visit” them. That is, we are told that it is a work of mercy to be present beside another person while in their weakest state.
St. Pope John Paul II wrote: “The request which arises from the human heart in the supreme confrontation with suffering and death, especially when faced with the temptation to give up in utter desperation, is above all a request for companionship, sympathy and support in the time of trial. It is a plea for help to keep on hoping when all human hopes fail” (Evangelium Vitae, 67)
By choosing to stay with someone who is suffering, we are gifting them with loving and prayerful companionship. We are essentially saying to the other person, even without words, that they are worth our time and presence even though they can give nothing in return. And we are also sharing with them, in a way, our hope and strength for their journey.
This act of steadfastness in the face of suffering is related to the other work of mercy which we reflect on this week. “To bear wrongs patiently” may seem like a more passive work of mercy compared to the others, but in reality it can require a lot of interior effort. It doesn’t require us seeking out an act of charity or soul in need. Instead, we are called to cultivate an attitude of heart that accepts crosses as they come.
To do so certainly helps to sanctify our own souls. But how does this benefit our neighbor? For starters, no one likes to be around someone who bears wrongs impatiently. If we become a person of peace, not only do we avoid causing annoyance to those around us, but we can actually help to create more peace for others. Second, if we suffer wrong at the hands of another person, it is a merciful act to realize that they are just another imperfect human being like ourselves and to be patient and forgiving toward them. Third, by bearing wrongs patiently we are modeling the heart of Jesus Christ for others. Jesus is the ultimate example of bearing wrongs patiently in the way that He embraced the cross for our sins.
“Though harshly treated, He submitted and did not open His mouth; Like a lamb led to slaughter or a sheep silent before shearers, He did not open His mouth…” (Isaiah 53:7)
Some specific ways that we can practice the works of mercy that are “visit the sick” and “bear wrongs patiently” include:
Be available for someone in your family who is sick. Be gentle and patient with them, and, if necessary, consider arranging for them the sacrament of Anointing of the Sick.
Volunteer at a hospital. Donate cards or care packages for the patients or those who take care of them. Also get to know your local Catholic hospital chaplain and ask how you can support his ministry.
Pray specifically for those who are ill and suffering in your community and around the world.
Visit a nursing home and spend time with the residents there. Your presence reminds them that they are seen and loved.
When someone bothers you or even hurts you, practice forgiving them and praying for them.
Learn more about what the Church teaches about redemptive suffering and “offering up” our struggles in union with Christ’s suffering.
Avoid complaining and negative thinking.
Be careful about what you consume and how you respond on social media, where negativity and conflict are often exaggerated.
Ask God to help you see the good in every person and every situation.
