Psalm 62: “In you alone is my soul at rest. My help comes from you.”

People in the time of Christ and the apostles thought in terms of a smaller world and a shorter history than we do. The early Christians expected the end of things to happen in their lifetime. Paul tells his readers not to be too concerned about getting married if they aren't (I Cor. 7:25-31). The time is so short it is hardly worth getting the license. Today, we are aware of the vast distances in our universe and its immense age. The universe and time might seem endless but human life seldom gets much beyond a hundred years. Our tears, our rejoicing, our purchases, our building, our pleasures, our ambitions -- they are all ultimately passing. We need not despise these things or consider them of no account. No.

Christians cannot regard this world and its contents as so important that they will do anything to get what they desire. Perhaps we have to admit that we're at a disadvantage compared to those who have no belief in anything but the world they can buy, touch and collect. Christians believe we are also citizens of a world that cannot be bought, collected or touched, but which lasts forever.

Psalm 27: “I believe I shall see the Lord’s goodness / in the land of the living.

Wait for the Lord; be strong; / be stouthearted, and wait for the Lord!”

Reply to Fr. Don at: DTalafous@csbsju.edu

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