How are you holding up in these troubling times we find ourselves in?  The pandemic with all its implications coupled with all the political unrest could easily shade how we view the world and our place in that world.  There are many voices clamoring to direct our response to everything impacting our lives and even how we think about all that is occurring.

God, as we know, is not surprised or confused with any of this.  HE has the answers for each of us in these troubling times.  We simply need to turn to HIS Word.  In today’s first reading from Paul’s second letter to the church at Thessalonica, he encourages them to “not be shaken ….. or be alarmed.” He goes on to remind them to “let no one deceive you in any way,”  and further “to possess the glory or our Lord Jesus Christ” and to “stand firm”,  That message certainly seems to apply directly to us today. It is so easy to let fear gain the upper hand, to let it overshadow the fact of God’s constant presence with us.  Paul’s message reminds us of God’s love, HIS everlasting encouragement, and our eternal hope through HIS grace – all designed to encourage our hearts and to strengthen us in every good deed and word.

The Responsorial Psalm goes on to remind us that our Lord is indeed in complete control.  No pandemic nor other forms of evil will have the final word.  We can join all creation with joyful confidence that HIS justice will prevail.  The Alleluia from Hebrews further reinforces the fact that the “Word of God is living and effective, able to discern reflections and thoughts of the heart.”    This amazing fact helps us to understand that God’s Word applies as much to us today as it did for those living in Thessalonica.  Perhaps times of trouble are the most powerful in leading us back to God’s holy word. 

Today’s Gospel from Matthew seems at first glance to interject a troubling thought to our reliance upon the teachers of God’s Word, yet this is a clear message directly from our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  Perhaps HIS scathing criticism of the scribes and Pharisees is exactly what we need to hear in these times we are currently living through.  HE is reminding us that our actions are what really count.  Our actions are what unveils the true nature of our heart.  Jesus is indeed watching how we respond to those around us with different views, those that react differently to the challenges that threaten to overtake us all.  The Pharisees thought they were right and had all the right answers, yet Jesus points out how far off they really were.  This lesson screams how critical humility is in our walk with Jesus.  Are we listening to the cries of those around us?  Are we seeking to understand the life story of others and are we showing empathy and love?  Do they see Jesus and HIS love through our response to them?  In these troubling times, we must never forget that only God has the answers, only HE has the complete perspective, we are simply called to let HIS amazing love flow through us.

Dear Heavenly Father, you have placed each of us in a unique time, in a unique setting, and with unique people all around us.  Please open our eyes and hearts to your holy will and use each of us with humility to empower our words and actions to point others to YOU.   In the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ.