There is a time for every purpose under heaven. Friends, while this is a trying time for all of us, I would like to point out three realities. First, the Gospel reality, second, the Pandemic reality and third, the Divine Comedy of the Christian life. To conclude, extra-special golden anniversary wishes!
First, I hope you notice that Jesus likes to ask questions, usually after praying. Today’s Gospel has him asking the disciples: Who do people say that I am. And then he reveals the purpose of his life; that he has come to save us by suffering, dying and rising from the dead.
Second, the pandemic has altered our daily routine. We know that God is in charge and that something as harmful for so many people, in God’s hands, can be a great grace.
The natural beauty of the quiet campus where I am living has been the solitary domain of a few of us. I have been able to walk and listen to audible books, and just this week, I finished The Divine Comedy by Dante. This towering work about faith and salvation is one of the most remarkable works of literature and spirituality.
Dante is the lead figure and he goes on a great pilgrimage guided by Virgil and Beatrice, who is also the Virgin Mary. The Inferno is hell and a harrowing journey through rings of evil where unrepentant souls are spending eternity in hopeless horror. Dante can’t wait to escape from hell into Purgatory. Finally arriving in Paradise, the scenes of joy, peace, and exuberant life are almost too much to take.
The pandemic has forced all of us into a quieter, simpler mode of life. In solitude we have been able to focus on what is truly essential. This difficult time, in God’s hands, can be a great grace. We come to realize that the human relationships of love and friendship with each other and God are at the heart of the matter.
Speaking of relationships of love, I would like to salute and celebrate Gerald and Spring Raymond for their 50 golden years of love, marriage and faithfulness to each other, their children, their spouses and grandchildren. They have inspired those closest to them with the love and joy they have for each other, and for their family and friends. What a blessing and gift their committed love is to all of us! Distance does not keep us from sharing our love and joy with them this week.
God bless them and may there be many other families so rich in faith, joy and unity. As Father Peyton always said, “The family that prays together stays together.”
- Father Willy's inspirational homily was recorded live this morning during Mass at the Father Peyton Center. Please view the video on our Facebook page. (You don't need a Facebook account to view.)
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