We can know of God because he has revealed himself. Scripture is the record of his revelation. We are the recipients. Much of what is read is not one hundred per cent clear. The length of life of the individual Patriarchs from Adam onwards is a huge question mark. What is recorded as God's promise to Abraham is with us today as a nation of Israel still exists although it too has lost the Faith in  God that is the sole reason for its existence. Science today strives to prolong our lives on earth but nobody seriously strives after a patriarchal length of days.

Jesus says "Of course I want to cure you". Then he tells the leper to show himself to the priests for it is they who can, according to the law of Moses, declare a leper free of his disease. Jesus throughout the New Testament shows his support for the organised religion as it existed in his days. In these days much is made by anti-clerics of Jesus' opposition to the scribes and the Pharisees even though he tells us that he comes to fulfil the Law ( established religion) not to change it. Our priesthood is founded by the Lord and has the huge responsibility of shepherding the people of God to the Truth that comes from God. That this responsibility is sincerely recognised and practised is not obvious in today's Church.

Dear Lord send your Holy Spirit into the hearts of your faithful and may the sincerity of belief found among your people be an inspiration to your Priests. Let us see holiness in the lives of your priests.