Last Friday, I used my new knee in a new way for the first time. I had my right knee replaced in September, and the doctor told me to wait six months to a year before I knelt on it with my full weight. I've been using it pretty much as it should be used, except for the kneeling.

And then last Friday, March 27, Pope Francis offered an extraordinary Urbi et Orbi blessing begging God's assistance as the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic. The service – which I followed live on television along with countless millions around the globe – included Scripture readings, prayers of supplication, Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament and the blessing itself.

I followed along with the pope, and I stood when the Blessed Sacrament was exposed. It was when Pope Francis brought the monstrance to the front of the St. Peter's Basilica and lifted Jesus high as he pronounced the Urbi et Orbi that I dropped, somewhat gingerly, to my knees.

To me, it was the perfect time to begin kneeling again. I figured if I was bold enough to ask Jesus to perform a miracle to end this pandemic, then I also must be humble enough to do so on my knees.

Truthfully, kneeling hurt. A lot. But I was able to offer up my pain as an additional sacrifice as I petitioned the Lord to hear the prayers of His worried and fearful children. 

I stayed on my knees for a little bit after the end of the blessing. And while that might sound holy, it was due to the trouble I had getting up off my knees. Kneeling down was a spur of the moment decision. Getting up took some thought and maneuvering. It wasn't pretty, but I did finally get up off the floor.

The blessing inspired me to get out my Bible and do some reading. I leafed through both the Old and the New Testaments, asking God to talk to me through His sacred Word. Here are two passages I've come across in the last couple days in which I take great comfort, and I share them in the hopes that others are heartened as well:

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:6-7)