Power forever and ever

This week's second reading is the closing of a letter attributed to St. Peter, addressed to Christians in Asian Minor (the majority of modern-day Turkey), composed probably between 70 and 90 A.D. The encouragement is deeply rooted in the certitude of faith and in the power of hope. How wonderful for us whose journeys can be quite challenging at times, for whom the stuff of daily life is not always easy.
  
We are not alone. Indeed, incredible things are happening deep inside us, and, in the end, Christ has the last word, in the end, we are victorious in divine love. We are assured, "if you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the spirit of glory, which is the Spirit of God, is resting on you" and exhorted, "humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, so that he may exalt you in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you" and promised that "the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, support, strengthen, and establish you." Restoration and support and strength and establishment: what more can we ask? As the letter/reading concludes, "to Him be power for ever and ever. Amen!"
  
Yours in Christ,
  
Fr. Dominique
Rector