Inspired by Scholastica

  The art of Kintsugi There is a Japanese tradition called Kintsugi that makes damaged objects such as broken pottery into works of art The artists put together the broken pieces by using a lacquer resin mixed with powdered gold. They highlight the damaged parts to call attention to the repair work. The pot can be used again since the lacquer makes it stronger than before. This art reminds me of how God repairs us when we are broken in some way. By his loving touch and mercy, he can make us whole again and more beautiful than before. We might have fallen into some bad habits, such as addictions, abuse, or alienation in families. These causes us to become “broken,” and many would just throw us away. But God with his loving mercy can heal our brokenness and with his “resin” of kindness make us even more beautiful. This new kind of beauty can be a gift to our families and communities. By God’s piecing together our wounds and shattered lives, others can see what the Divine Artist c

It is with a heavy heart that I read about the situation in Gaza. When I hear that the two biggest hospitals in Gaza can no longer operate and that food and medical supplies cannot get through, my heart breaks. Just recently, I heard that a three-year-old child was being held as a hostage. Even though brief periods for food and medical supplies are allowed to the Palestinians, it is not enough. It is not surprising that fear keeps people trapped in whatever shelter they can find. Many lives have been cut short due to this inhumane treatment. This is not a Jewish, Christian, or Muslim way of treating enemies, most of whom are innocent youths. Already 5,000 children have been killed or are missing in Gaza. Thousands have been maimed or disfigured by the constant bombardment. Leaders from the United States, England, and other countries are trying to negotiate a cease-fire; but so far, their efforts have been in vain. The United States and other countries are sending humanitarian aid to Ga