It’s strange. Something that gives me comfort in the midst of all the serious issues we face in our current world 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? You know them: our polarized society, Covid 19, a broken political system, climate change, racism, etc. Each one of these problems (and more), taunt us with their seeming insolvability.
So what are we to do? You may scoff at the answer to follow. It can seem so naïve and childlike. And it is child- like . . . it’s called Trust.
But trust in what? To people of Faith the answer is simple. We trust in God who revealed Himself in Jesus Christ. Jesus tells us, “In the world you will have trouble. But take courage. I have overcome the world.” Jn. 16:33.
It’s that simple. We were created by God. We are privileged to bear God’s image and now we are God’s children (1 John 3). That means He will help us. This is the rock of Faith. God will win in human history. Can you be a child and accept this?
It doesn’t mean the Lord will suddenly wipe away the damage we’ve done by our sinful behavior. God has chosen to accept our 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 co-operation.) 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 fairly tales. (God’s way is not our way). But for all we may have to go through, the future has been won. This is what the Resurrection reveals.
The final end of history will not happen without our imperfect co-operation. 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: trust in God and do good.
Fr. Tim
