“In illness, one learns much, if one is willing.” (Brother Konrad von Parzham)
The spiritual fathers—among whom Brother Konrad von Parzham certainly belongs—always show us how we can grow on our spiritual journey. When our Father allows a cross—and illness is such a cross—this is generally an opportunity for people of faith to grow and mature. Aside from the fact that it can also involve the dimension of atonement, especially for the many offenses against God and humanity, our Father wants us to learn something important.
However—and the saint emphasizes this—one must also want to learn. As long as we view illness merely as an evil that must be eliminated as quickly as possible by any means necessary, we will make no progress in the spiritual life. We remain trapped within ourselves, and not infrequently, self-pity, accusations, and discontent will darken our souls.
To avoid being misunderstood, let us draw attention here to a recommendation by St. Francis de Sales. He advises that, in the event of illness, one should certainly strive for healing with the means available. But if this does not occur, we should entrust ourselves to God’s will.
Here, the deeper issue is addressed. We are called to learn to accept the cross of illness as coming from the hand of God. Then good fruits can grow. Certainly, illness teaches us patience, surrender to God, and the realization of how fragile we are when our natural strength is no longer so readily available to us. This teaches us to trust the Father even more, for when we are weak, He is strong. Thus, every “cross of illness” can serve to deepen our relationship with God, to live more from God’s strength, and to grow in virtue.
Our nature may not desire this path of instruction, but our spirit should take this step so that our will may be aligned with God’s providence.