The God of Peace

Bailouts...financial institutions going under...billions lost in the market.... jobs lost....uncertainty...
The state of of our current economy is troublesome at best. It is easy to get caught up with things you can't control. I am not suggesting that it should not concern you but rather it should not consume you. Our faith teaches us that our eyes should be on the prize; the many rooms that have been prepared for us. The things of this world are transient. St. Paul wrote many times on the tension between the things of this world and the spiritual life. Paul also tells us: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy meditate on these things. The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you" (Philippians 4:6-9). Trusting in God, we can take life as it comes. Jesus does not deny that we have troubles. He just tells us to deal with them one day at a time. Each day, God will give us the strength we need for the challenges of that day. I am reminded of a hymn of evening prayer that can be sung to the tune of "There is a Wideness in God's Mercy" It goes like this:

As we worship grant us vision,
Till your love's revealing light,
Till the height and depth and greatness
Dawns upon our human sight:
Making known the needs and burdens
Your compassion bids us bear,
Stirring us to faithful service,
Your abundant life to share.

In times when our burdens grow remember there are those who struggle every day, whose crosses are weighed down, whose suffering never ceases. We can take this time to be there for those in need through prayer, support by being present, and monetary support. Set aside your fears and take this opportunity to grow in faith and in service in building the Kingdom of God. Keep you eye on the prize for "Eye has not seen nor ear heard, nor has it entered into the heart of man what things God has prepare for those who love Him."