December 27
During the Christmas season, we are reminded that the Word of Life has been made flesh and dwells among us: Jesus Christ, the Incarnate Word.
I began my career in Catholic health care at CHRISTUS Health, which is sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word. It is a joyful message, indeed, that Jesus, the Incarnate Word, dwells among us, in us, in those we serve, in our communities, friends, and foes alike. During a sometimes dark and divisive time in our history, this is a much-needed message.
As we conclude this Jubilee Year of Hope, we remember that hope is a gift from God. We receive it with an open heart and immense gratitude. Hope is always future-focused, requiring trust and faith. As a united health care ministry, we look toward the future with hope, grounded in faith, and determined to take action to further our mission in service to those we serve. The call to those founding Incarnate Word Sisters rings as true today as it did in 1866: "Our Lord Jesus Christ, suffering in the persons of a multitude of sick and infirm of every kind, seeks relief at your hands." Rejoice in the Lord, for He has been made flesh and dwells among us!
Dennis Gonzales, Ph.D.
Senior Director, Mission Innovation and Integration, CHA
Pause
Hope requires action. What are we going to do in response to these challenging times?
Pray
God, who is hope, shine Your light in our darkness so that we may continue to build Your kingdom. Let us be reflections of Your brilliance, always working to make Your goodness known. In Your Holy Name we pray, Amen.