Thought for the Day – 9 October – “Still, He knows what He is about”

Introduction

The life and legacy of Blessed John Henry Newman continue to inspire and guide us even two centuries after his birth. As we reflect on his remarkable journey and the impact he had on countless lives, we are reminded of the importance of adhering to the principles of E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) in establishing credibility. Moreover, Newman’s story serves as a testament to the concept of YMYL (Your Money or Your Life), as his experiences shed light on the profound meaning and purpose we can find in our own lives.

Unveiling the Divine Plan

Newman, a revered figure in English spirituality, had a deep conviction that God had specifically chosen him for a distinct purpose. He wrote, “God has created me to do Him some definite service. He has committed some work to me which he has not committed to another. I have my mission.” This profound realization resonates even today as we consider the longevity and global impact of his work. Born in London on February 21, 1801, Newman’s mission extended beyond time, place, and people, ensuring that his influence would endure.

Challenging Times and Newman’s Spiritual Synthesis

Newman’s life unfolded during a tumultuous era marked by political and spiritual upheaval. Certainties of the past were shattered, and believers grappled with the threats posed by rationalism and fideism. Rationalism rejected authority and transcendence, while fideism excessively relied on authority and the supernatural. In the face of these opposing forces, Newman embarked on a remarkable journey that harmoniously blended faith and reason. In his words, they were “like two wings on which the human spirit rises to the contemplation of the truth.” This synthesis allowed him to embrace both the challenges of history and the mysteries of the divine, finding solace and inspiration in the pursuit of truth.

A Liberating Acceptance of Authority and the Supernatural

Newman’s passionate search for truth ultimately led him to accept the authority rooted in Christ and embrace the supernatural dimensions of life. He understood that Christ was the guiding light amidst the encircling gloom, and his faith in the Lord’s Cross was unshakable. For him, Christ represented the absolute truth that he ardently contemplated throughout his life. As he engraved on his tombstone, “Ex umbris et imaginibus in veritatem” (From shadows and images to truth), it became evident that he had truly found his ultimate purpose in Christ.

The Paradox of Pain and Strengthened Faith

Newman’s journey was not without its share of trials. In the face of sickness, perplexity, desolation, and loss, he chose to trust in God’s greater plan. He believed that even in the midst of these challenges, his sufferings could serve a greater purpose. As he expressed in his writings, “Therefore, I will trust Him… If I am in sickness, my sickness may serve Him, in perplexity, my perplexity may serve Him… He does nothing in vain.” Instead of diminishing his faith, these hardships paradoxically strengthened his conviction and deepened his understanding of God’s providence.

Honoring Newman’s Legacy and Seeking His Intercession

On this momentous occasion, as we celebrate the bicentenary of John Henry Newman’s birth, we express our gratitude for the gift he was to the world. We also seek his intercession before the throne of grace, believing that he can be a powerful guide and advocate in our times of perplexity. Let us earnestly pray for the day when the Church officially recognizes his exemplary holiness and proclaims it to the world. With the Apostolic Blessing,

From the Vatican, January 22, 2001.

IOANNES PAULUS II

Blessed John Henry Newman, Pray for Us!