During months of physical therapy for my fractured arm, I was reminded of the essential role laminin plays in my body.  Laminin, a cross-shaped protein, is the molecular “rebar” that binds together the cellular structure of our human bodies—a protein without which we would effectively fall apart. This was good news as my bones healed!

This Good News also helps me trust the binding nature of Christ for his body the Church, when headlines suggest otherwise. Despite our frail, human condition—our unhealthy attachments, our self-referenced focus—Christ Jesus himself joins together—and will not let go of!— the whole structure which is the household of God. By grace, through Christ’s death and resurrection, we are the raw material of his holy temple and members of his household. How can you enter this day held by the One who holds all things together? Where is this grace holding you?

—Sharon Krone is Director of Ministry at Bellarmine Jesuit Retreat House in Barrington, Illinois, and a supporter of the Ignatian Spirituality Project.

Lord Jesus Christ, you are before all things, and in you all things hold together. Everything, visible and invisible exists through you and as Love you sustain all things. In your mercy and for your glory, hold us and bind together this beautiful body, your Church. Grant us the grace both to be held by Love and to be instruments of Love toward one another.  Amen

—Sharon Krone