The simple things

I am reading the book He Leadeth Me and I am left stunned every time I put the book down.

It is not a theologically heavy book, it is not densely written so that you have to reread every paragraph, it is not long, and it is a book that, I believe, everyone can relate to in some way.

The book is about Walter Ciszek, a priest, who was imprisoned in Russian work camps for 23 years in the 40's and 50's. He writes his spiritual account of how God led him to Russia and the truths he learned through his experiences.

It is a profound book, yet paradoxolly he is a simple man. His chapters are short and to the point; he tackles topic such as: the body, the Mass, conformity to God's Will, Humility, God's seeming silence, suffering, and more. What I am struck by is that from all these topics arise timeless questions that theologians have been contemplating forever. There is clearly an abundant amount of grace in Ciszek's writing because he captures his experience and revelas truths in a unique and life changing way.

The suffering Ciszek endured is basically unthinkable to the modern 21st century American. He was in solitary confinment for 5 years only with interruptions of being interrogated by awful Russian authorities who played with his mind and tryed forcing him to admit things he didn't do. He was thrown into ruffian crowds of slave labors where he had to fend for his life and given only enough food to barely survive. For years he worked 7 days a week 365 days a year 12-14 hour days in Siberia with no end in sight - most mens' goal was to survive. The suffering goes on and on.

Yet, Ciszek did his best to unite his suffering with Christ's suffering on the cross and he believed none of it was in vain. Every mundane moment of existence had a purpose and he offered that to God.

Perhaps there is a better title for this post, but I used it because as Ciszek searched for meaning in his suffering he always came back to prayer and the Mass. These 2 things united him with God. Prayer and the Mass are infinitely deep in terms of the graces they bring and the connection they give us to God, but they are simple in the fact that prayer is humbling oneself before God in his presence while seeking him and the Mass is celebration of Christ's sacrifice on Calvary for our salvation. It sounds nice to keep things simple: when in doubt, seek prayer and go to Mass. :)