30/08/2021

The early Church had many adherents who had known Jesus and who had witnessed the Crucifixion and been mystified by the Resurrection. They well knew that He had promised to return and eagerly looked forward to it "Maranatha " was never far from their lips or thoughts. But what about those who died before the "Parousia"? St Paul's words to day are to those for whom the delay in the Second Coming was unbearable . Their 1st Century world continued to function in  its usual way and up until the destruction of the Temple there were no signs or portents. Their fellow believers got older or sick and died.

It is a great sign for us  that  those Jews and pagans who formed the first congregations and received the first Sacraments were able to tolerate the result of their decisions to believe this new preaching, the  main point of which was the Resurrection and the awaited return. of Jesus.

They must have had  hearts completely open to the Lord and teachers whose words rang out with sincerity and joy. The immensity of the hope enkindled by the real presence of the Holy Spirit is still freely available for all peoples. The Scriptures are still a source of wonder and joy and we are still the same human beings created by the Lord to live righteously knowing that we have been saved to share in the fruits of  Ever Greater Love the source of which is Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Dear Lord let me never become satisfied by my efforts to know, love and serve you. Help me to be true in all the little ways that lead to you.