Fr. Michael Gaitley, in his work, 33 Days to Morning Glory: A Do-It-Yourself Retreat to Marian Consecration, refers to a "darkness" experienced by Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta when she founded her Missionaries of Charity congregation. The darkness, perhaps in the disappointments or lack of progress she may have originally hoped for.

After several years, however, she came to believe that her darkness was just a very small part of Jesus' darkness and pain on this earth, and how it was actually a "mysterious link" that united her to the heart of Jesus.

As lay ministers, have we ever experienced that darkness of inattentive listeners, indifferent parishioners or unappreciative clergy?   Has our ministry ever seemed at times to take a back seat to other "more important" ministries in our parish?  Have we thought about moving on to more "fulfilling" ministries? 

Fr. Gaitley suggests that in times of darkness, we ponder Mother Teresa's following words...

When you feel miserable inside, look at the cross and you'll know what is happening. Suffering, pain, humiliation and feelings of loneliness are nothing but the kiss of Jesus; a sign that you have come so close that he can kiss you. Never put on a long face. Suffering is a gift from God. It is between you and Jesus alone.

So for each moment of darkness we may experience, just know that Jesus will be saying to us...  "It's okay. We're in this together, and I will carry you through it."