The Gift of Interruption: Saint John of the Cross and Covid-19

Abstract

This article contends that St. John of the Cross provides a helpful perspective on envisioning the redemptive possibilities of COVID-19 through the paradigm of “interruption.” After reflecting on Old and New Testament stories of traumatic disruption, a biblical and theological foundation is established for redemptive outcomes of life-altering interruption. Next, John’s dark night of the soul theology is discussed in relation to persistent seasons of physical and emotional challenge. Three interruptive qualities of his night—discomfort, disillusionment, and discouragement—reveal his perspective on its redeeming potential for Christian faith. Then, through interrogating contemporary notions of (1) happiness, (2) success, and (3) self-worth, John shows how they often work against the transforming capacity of faith. In doing so, COVID-19 can be envisioned as a gift of redemptive interruption. The article concludes with a summary of key points.