“The last will be first, and the first last”
Matthew 20:16
Lots of things continue to be cancelled or postponed in recent days due to Covid-19 but there are some things that can never be canceled. In many ways, the specific actions being taken by many of our Governors are absolutely necessary, exhibiting their underlying commitment to the broader community each of us are a part of, especially actions that protect the most vulnerable in our society and who in a spiritual context reflect Matthew’s quote from Scripture that “the last will be first, and the first last”. Yes, work around the globe has ground to a halt and the impact on our economy and the world will be substantial; schools continue to be closed and with it come some extraordinary new demands are being placed on our students, teachers, administrators, and parents; sports activities, travel, and major events that define our everyday life and culture have been either canceled or postponed as well; In many ways, it’s as if the world has hit the “pause” button. And, even though our parishes, churches, and synagogues have been closed to the public, people everywhere seem to be searching for some deeper, spiritual connection to what we are experiencing as we navigate this historical challenge. I find hope in that more than 600 people joined us online for the livestream of our two Masses this past weekend and a similar community response is occurring across many other faiths as all of us search for God’s healing comfort and the inner peace that only He can provide.
So, while lots of things may continue to be canceled or postponed in the days and weeks ahead, God’s love for each of us will never be canceled — not today or any day in the future. While we are not able to get together in person, we can be creative and find other ways to be there for each other and remain socially as well as spiritually connected. We can heed God’s call for us to be Priests who can be a people of prayer; to be Prophets who can help console one another during challenging times like this; and to be Kings who can help build up the community around us and make our world a better place for all and one that aligns with His hopes and our own for the future. Stay safe folks and let God be your pilot during this extraordinary time in our journey and know that His love for all of us knows no bounds.
Wishing you and your loved ones the gift of His many blessings, Dr. K
