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At the beginning of 2024, an individual embarked on a journey to read and reflect on one spiritual classic each month. By the end of the year, they had completed their goal, albeit slightly late, finding value in each of the 12 books that brought them closer to God.
As the year concluded and a new one began, they turned to "The Sadness of Christ," the final work by St. Thomas More before his execution in 1535 for opposing King Henry VIII's claim as the supreme head of the church in England. Written during More's imprisonment in the Tower of London, this work contains meditations likely influenced by his impending martyrdom and offers practical advice on prayer and living with eternal salvation in mind.
More emphasized maintaining God's presence during prayer despite human tendencies toward comfort and distraction. Reflecting on Christ's example of humble prayer, he questioned how often people pray with physical comforts like cushions under their knees and elbows while their minds wander from God.
In his writings, More highlighted Christ's prostration as a warning that believers should serve and honor God both inwardly with their hearts and outwardly with their bodies. He noted Christ's humble submission in prayer as an example for others.
Addressing issues within the modern church, More encouraged vigilance and prayer for sinful priests due to their influence on believers. He wrote about Christ being "delivered into the hands of sinners" when handled by corrupt priests during sacrament consecration. In such cases, he urged believers to watch, rise, and pray against temptation.
More also reflected personally on martyrdom, drawing comfort from Christ's anguish in Gethsemane. He pondered how Christ could feel sorrow despite being divine and suggested it was a recognition that nature alone cannot endure martyrdom without grace. For those afraid of suffering for faith, he advised courage through trust in Christ.
Christ himself conquered fear before his passion but experienced deep fear and sorrow beforehand. More encouraged even timid followers to take hold of Christ’s garment for strength during trials.
St. Thomas More’s life exemplifies heroic martyrdom as he chose loyalty to God over allegiance to King Henry VIII. His words offer solace to modern Catholics who struggle daily to follow Christ yet find encouragement in trusting Him amid challenges.
These reflections conclude a year-long exploration through spiritual classics, reminding readers to find courage in leaning on Christ whose strength is perfected in weakness.
Lauretta Brown is culture editor for OSV News. Follow her on X @LaurettaBrown6.
