St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, the first nativeborn American saint, wrote to a friend after the death of her husband: “God will provide, that is all my Comfort, never did that providence fail me.” St. Elizabeth suffered many tragedies in her life, including the death of her mother, husband, and several children. Through all these heartbreaks she relied on God’s comfort and was called to use her gifts in service to those most in need.
In today’s first reading we hear, “We receive from him whatever we ask.” St. Elizabeth wholeheartedly embraced this simple line which most of us can only hope is true. As we continue to celebrate the Epiphany, let us spend time in prayer, asking God to give us the gifts we need to serve him more faithfully and experience his loving comfort.
—Fr. Tom Neitzke, S.J. is President of Creighton Prep, Omaha, NE.