A woman in front of the ruins after Typhoon in Philippines.
We live in a world that is uncertain. Our climate is changing, with typhoons becoming stronger and more frequent. Our social norms and value systems are changing, and truth and justice seem not to matter anymore. Politics is also changing, with those with dictatorial tendencies winning elections here and abroad. Technology, especially with the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, is transforming our world too at an unprecedented pace. Even our families, our friends, our relationships, and even ourselves are all constantly changing. Nothing is permanent; nothing stays the same. These changes and uncertainties can cause confusion, fear and anxiety in us.
To live and thrive in these uncertain and changing world, we need to anchor ourselves on something or someone that is solid and eternal. We cannot rely solely on ourselves or on others because we are all fragile and weak.
Amidst these uncertainties, the word of God reminds us of what truly endures and whom we should trust. In the end, it will not be the dictators of this world who will last, nor will it be those whose lives have brought horror and disgrace to the world. Instead, it will be the wise, those who lead others to justice, who will live forever.
True wisdom, however, cannot come by relying on ourselves alone. As the Gospel reminds us, we must rely on God’s word: “Heaven and earth will pass away, but God’s word will not pass away.”
During advent, may we be reminded of Mary's unwavering trust in God’s word and how her life was guided by it. In Mary, God found someone willing to work with Him so His plan may be realised. The same invitation is being extended to us. Like Mary, we are also being called by God to work with Him to bring about goodness and hope to our world, which continues to suffer from wars, violence, corruption, exploitation, injustice, inequality, poverty and ecological disasters.
Remember those devastated by natural disasters and war, particularly the poor and vulnerable. We pray that God’s word will continue to challenge us and transform our lives for the better. Like Mary, may we become generous in our service to God and humanity, especially to the poor. Like Mary, who gave birth to our saviour, may we also give birth to our saviour again by bringing about hope, justice, peace, and healing to our wounded and broken world. And when it’s time for us to leave this earth, may we leave it a much better place than we found it. Amen.
Columban Fr Chris Kaamiño works in the Philippines as the Socius of the Columban Spiritual Year Program.
Related links
- Read more from the current Columban eBulletin
