It’s strange. Something that gives me comfort in the midst of our current world and national turmoil is the realization that some things are just out of my control. I’m not off the hook by any means. I must do my part. But how this all turns out – – – that’s in God’s hands.
So what are those issues that cause you to wonder just where this world is headed? You know them: our polarized society, Covid 19, a broken political system, climate change, racism, church clergy abuse, etc.
Each one of these problems and more, taunt us with their seeming insolvability.
So what are we to do? Trust that this is all covered (in a way we can’t see) by God who loves us. It’s that simple yet profound. Jesus tells us, “In the world you will have trouble. But take courage. I have overcome the world.” Jn. 16:33
It doesn’t mean the Lord will suddenly wipe away the damage we’ve done by our own willful unkindness. God chooses to accept our free sinful choices and their consequences.
To heal the social wound requires a new desire within our own hearts. God will not bring a healing of our wounds without our cooperation. It requires (especially of Christians), faith, good will, sacrifice, forgiveness and courage.
That’s it in a nutshell, really. God’s plan for the world has already been secured. He has overcome the world by Christ’s death and Resurrection. There is no power on earth that can overcome the will of God to save the human race. Period.
There will be suffering along the way. Things may not fit the “happily ever after” we vision in fairy tales. (God’s way is not our way). But for all we may have to go through, the future has been won.
Think of it. All the forces of darkness and sin gathered in one horrible day and killed the King of Love. To this day, the enemy of Christ is still at work in the world (see the list above). But it’s a losing battle . . . the love of God is the supreme and final reality. Death is overcome by a Love that is God Eternal. This is what the Resurrection means for us.
The final end of history will not happen without our imperfect cooperation. God wants us to share in the story He’s already completed! “Seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness. Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself.” Mt. 6:33, 34.
This is a real act of Faith, isn’t it? To trust in a victory that’s already happened; but one I cannot yet see. This Faith brings about the second great virtue Hope. (Read the beautiful passage of St. Paul in Romans 8:18-25) “And so we boast of the hope we have of sharing God’s glory . . . and this hope does not disappoint (in spite of life’s sorrows) for God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, who is God’s gift to us.” Romans 5:5.
We never give up hope. Never! Why? Because Christ has won the victory. Human history will complete itself in God’s good time. And when it does, you, who have longed for its coming, you scarred and wounded faithful, you will shout for joy.
Let us each do our part.
Fr. Tim
