Stone by Stone

After a week of silent prayer and reflection in Assisi, we are back on the road to Florence and Venice. The main part of our day was in Florence, the city known for being the cradle of the Renaissance. We had a brief tour of the city, but the highlights of the day was undoubtedly the strikingly beautiful cathedral of Florence – the “jewel” of the city, as our tour guide described it. The cathedral was a massive project spanning over 150 years, a sign of the dedication that the people of Florence had to something (or someone) greater than themselves. 

Yet, as we come to the close of our pilgrimage and enter one of the final semesters of seminary, I found myself reflecting on David, the great hero of the Old Testament. A replica of Michelangelo’s sculpture of David towers over Piazza della Signoria. It struck me because I remember having to compare Michelangelo’s David with Donatello’s David for a high school history exam. One of the particularities of Michelangelo’s rendition is his portrayal of the young David before entering his battle with Goliath. Donatello’s rendition and the other sculptures of David at the time were typically portrayals of David’s victory after battle. 

What is most interesting about David (which is undeniably conveyed by Michelangelo here) is his belief in himself beforehis victory. He is a shepherd – a profession that requires strength and vigilance – but he is no warrior. But despite his lack of experience as a warrior, David stands up to Goliath with a sling, a few stones, and an unshakeable confidence – a confidence that is rooted in God. David’s faith in God’s providence must have been the source of his inspiration to take on such a fearsome challenge. We can all learn something from David. 

When considering these things in light of my vocation to the priesthood, I am reminded that I should believe in myself because God believes in me. It was God who called me to this vocation, after all.  Why would God call each of us to a vocation we could not live well? 

As ordination nears, I think of what priesthood will entail for us. I imagine that it will be difficult for me at some moments. I imagine that I will face Goliaths. And I imagine that I will see the need to improve myself to live out what I am called to. But I hope that through all these moments, I remain with the disposition of David, filled with faith that God will provide what is necessary to live out the priesthood well.  

And as I take in the sights of Florence and the cathedral that took several generations to build, I remember that great results are not always so immediately evident to us. To build something beautiful takes time, and often, the fruits of our labors are often not seen in this lifetime. Yet, in Florence, I see that with perseverance and by the love and grace of God, something beautiful has come to fruition – something that is timeless and eternal. 

-Sam Kuttappassery, Malabar Eparchy of Chicago