Uncertainty
“When everything is uncertain, everything that is important becomes clear.”
~ Dr. Caroline Leaf
The pandemic in the world around us has been a game-changer and life-changer for many people. As we go through so many stay-in-place days and as we wonder when things will return to normal once again, many people have begun to express what they want to do when they first have a chance at “freedom”.
I have heard a long list of things desired: vacations, uninterrupted travel, dining out, and going to the movies all make the list of things desired. However, what tops most everyone’s list is visiting with family and friends as well as going to church. People miss the intimacy of being able to be in the presence of others. They also miss the chance to worship together as well as to receive the sacraments.
“When everything is uncertain, everything that is important becomes clear.” I am happy to hear so many of my parishioners speak about how clear it has become to them that they not only crave the sacraments but that they need the sacraments. They are what is important in life. We can go out to eat all we want, we can see all the movies that come out, and we can travel the world; but, we don’t have to travel very far to receive the Lord, Jesus Christ. That can be found when we celebrate the Mass.
We have heard confessions every Saturday because we are allowed the opportunity to provide for people as long as the number is under ten. The people who come to confession are very thankful to be able to have that sacrament. We have also celebrated several funeral Masses. It is sad to know that many family and friends were not able to attend because of the restriction on numbers. At the same time, it is good to be able to minister to the needs of the loved one’s immediate family.
It is uncertain how long this pandemic and the restrictions surrounding the pandemic will last. What is certain is that more and more people are coming to realize just how much they need God in their lives and how many look to the sacraments for comfort and strength. I pray that we all have the chance to get back into our churches soon so that we can receive what is so very important.
FAITH ACTION: Ask God for the gift of discernment so that you may be able to see clearly what is most important in your life.