Embracing God’s Presence in Spiritual Darkness – Feb 09 – Homily – Fr Matthias

 

Fr Matthias gives the homily at Bloomington, IN, on Feb 09, 2026, explaining how God's presence in the spiritual life often feels like a dark cloud, as seen in the Book of Kings, calling us to trust and persevere for profound growth.

In this homily, Father draws from the Book of Kings, where the Ark of the Covenant enters the temple, and God's presence appears as a dark cloud, preventing the priests from ministering. He teaches that in our spiritual journey, God sometimes reveals Himself this way too—through moments of darkness, dryness, or confusion. This isn't a sign that God is absent; it's a real, special presence in which He takes over to purify us and lead us into the mystical stage of faith. Father encourages us to trust, let go, and continue doing God's will during these times, as this builds great merit and virtues such as faith, hope, and love, preparing us for the clear vision of God in heaven.

1 Kings 8:10-11 - Divine glory fills temple - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/1kings/8?10
Catechism of the Catholic Church - Spiritual senses and purification - http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/para/272.htm
Catechism of the Catholic Church - Mystical life and union - http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/p3s1c3a2.htm#IV
Exodus 40:34-35 - Cloud covers tabernacle - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/exodus/40?34
Franciscan Media - St. John of the Cross - https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-john-of-the-cross/

Ave Maria!

Mass: Monday 5th Week of Ordinary Time - Wkdy
Readings:  - http://usccb.org/bible/readings/020926.cfm
1st: 1ki 8:1-7, 9-13
Resp: psa 132:6-7, 8-10
Gsp: mar 6:53-56

More on the Readings: https://airmaria.com/r?m=1589

Also on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Pf104-f5MNc