Today's ominous readings hint at the end of time as well as the fulfillment of the Kingdom of God. For Matthew the Kingdom is something very important. Talk about the end, whether it be '2012' or some rock from space, causes people to become frightened and even anxious. The Gospels and the Epistles charge us to remain faithful to the calling we have received all the way to the end.
In a simpler time, when life seemed slower, and communities more stable, believing in God and being faithful to the covenant was easier - or so it seemed. A friend and I talk about those who seem to long for the 40s and 50s. Sort of a 'Father Knows Best' life when identity and position were clear and unquestioned. Yet a popular T.V. show bluntly presents the evil and sinfulness that part of the culture then, yet it was well hidden. As disciples our entire being must be presented to God.
The Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, recently went to Germany and spoke with several different groups of people. In his address to the laity he mused about the post-modern mentality which reduces issues of moral and ethics to a subliminal relativism. While he spoke about the inability of many to make a life long commitment, he was alluding to marriage. But the same can be said of religious life and priesthood today. More so, Benedict indicated that the task self-denial and sacrifice for others seems less of an option in today's world.
Rather than living in fear the Gospels recommend making our faith vital and strong. St. Paul asks the question, 'If God is for us, who can be against?' Paul offers a litany of exterior forces that can harm, and even kill us. But Paul answers his own question by stating that God is always for us. In Benedict's speech to the German people (and this applies to us too) he recommends that faithful people gather together to discuss their faith, and to encourage one another in faith. Through prayer and the study of sacred scripture these small communities can be a source of connection to God and a more intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. These small groups can be a springboard of healing, and a reaffirmation of the Father's love.
No matter what the world throws at us we need a faith family to go to so as to experience the fullness of the Father's compassion and peace. We used to have Bingo here at this parish. Part of its ministry, unintentional to be sure, was a social outlet for many of the elderly. The Church might want to look at new models so as to gather people, support them, and bless them on their way. In this way we can respond to the ongoing crisis of faith.
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