Q: I’ve been excessively vain and extravagant throughout my life, spending huge amounts on my appearance. I’ve prayed about this vice especially to our Blessed Mother and the vice has somewhat decreased over the time, though not totally disappeared. Recently I was diagnosed with a condition (not fatal) which has somewhat disfigured my appearance — the very thing I took so much pride in. It’s got to a point where I can’t face myself in the mirror or meet people unless I absolutely have no choice . Is God punishing me for my vices especially vanity and extravagance? And what else can I do spiritually? Accepting this is very difficult even with prayer. – J.

Answered by Fr. Edward McIlmail, LC

A: Perhaps this medical condition is God’s way of answering your prayers.

You prayed to be released from vanity — this might be your opportunity.

Try not to see any of this as God’s way of punishing you. You are his beloved daughter, and he loves you no matter what you look like.

He has allowed a cross in your life. The cross is never easy to bear.

But if carried well, the cross can be an instrument of purification.

This might be a moment to unite this suffering with that of Jesus on the cross, whose face was spat on and bloodied for love of you.

Our Lord didn’t worry about his appearance on Calvary. He was concerned for his Father’s will and the salvation of souls.

Aside from helping to free you from vanity, the disfigurement might also help you to learn which people really do love you.

Count on my prayers.