Wherever we are, wherever we live, we dwell under the same sky. During the day, when we look up at it, we see it as blue, or gray from rain or pollution. At night, however, the situation changes, depending on where we are. If we live in a city or a town, we’ll probably be able to spot a few stars here and there. If, on the other hand, we live in the countryside or in an area with few artificial lights, we should be able to see many more stars. Yet it is the same sky where days and nights, mornings and evenings, alternate. Some time ago, I was given a candy, one of those with a little note inside that usually has romantic phrases written on it. To my great surprise, the message I received read, ‘I know nothing for certain, but the sight of the stars makes me dream.’ This phrase was written by Vincent Van Gogh to his brother Theo, to whom he was very close, reflecting on the fact that, although he did not know the future or the deeper meaning of life, the beauty of the night sky offered him comfort and inspiration. In some way, the sky is a constant. It gives us security. We know we will always find it in its place, towering majestically and infinitely above us. From childhood, we are taught that it is God’s dwelling place, that Jesus ascended into heaven, that Mary was assumed into heaven, and that our loved ones join it once they leave this earth. Psalm 19 proclaims that the heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Unfortunately, these days the sky in many countries has become threatening, because it is streaked with missiles that tear through its beauty and terrify those who no longer feel safe beneath its firmament. From an inspirer of dreams, it has been transformed into a nightmare. From a proclaimer of God’s glory, it has been turned into a mere space from which destruction and death rain down. From a herald of God’s work, it has been reduced to a vehicle of violence and oppression. If human beings are denied even the simple freedom to look up without fear, what remains for them? If the sky becomes a threat, where can they turn their gaze? Let us continue to turn our eyes to God and pray for peace, hoping and believing that the words of Psalm 85 will one day come true: Mercy and truth shall meet; righteousness and peace shall kiss. Truth shall spring out of the earth, and righteousness shall look down from heaven. Amen.

Sr Barbara Perali, ASC