Love's Tears

We reflect on St. Monica  today, who for twenty years prayed and wept for the conversion of her son, Augustine. Her tale has become a classic, with a happy ending to boot, and serves as an example and an encouragement for so many of us who pray for conversions, healing, and forgiveness.  The Collect for St. Monica states that God, who consoles the sorrowful, mercifully accepted her motherly tears, and, as Bishop Robert Barron points out, in a way wept for Augustine through them.  In the hymn, Canticle of the Virgin, composer James Kevin Gray reminds us, "When love has wept, no soul can die." Love's tears come from the core of our being, and make a convincing case to our God, who weeps with us.May we pray persistently, convincingly and patiently for those we love; and may our tears become tears of joy.
Bro .Rene