Monday of the Fourth Week of Lent

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Lo, I am about to create new heavens
    and a new earth;
The things of the past shall not be remembered
    or come to mind.
Instead, there shall always be rejoicing and happiness
    in what I create...

Wow! What better time to reflect on this particular verse than the time we are going through right now. Whether it’s the coronavirus, global warming, or everyday problems, it’s easy to be consumed with everything that is “wrong”. And just when you think everything is all doom and gloom, this verse, like a shooting star in the sky, reminds us of God’s promise to us. A promise that this Earth, with all her ups and downs, is not the endgame, but a temporary space we are living in.

In the comfort we as believers have in and from Christ, our sights should not be set on the “now” but the promise of this new heaven and earth. I like many people have had my fair share of ups and downs during these trying times. Ever so often lost in my thoughts, trying to make sense of the “why” and the “what” in the events of the past year. I have found myself focused on the million things I’ve missed out on during our universal quarantine. And with each passing day, more anxious to get back to “normal” I begin to realize I’ve lost sight of the ultimate goal. The goal represented in this verse, the finish line to join Christ through his promise to us on creating a new heaven and earth. The Lord is reassuring us that there will be a time when we will not remember the past, an important message to remember when we get so consumed with the stresses of life. That no matter what we are going through, and what we will go through in the future, there will be a place of absolute joy, peace, and serenity that awaits all those who honor his word.

So next time we have that horrific day, horrible phone call, or just feel out of sorts, go to the word of God. Read Isaiah 65:17-21 and remember that this is only temporary. There is a light at the end of the tunnel, a light that will shine forever and ever. 

Jamaal Womack

Senior Advancement Officer

Engagement & Annual Giving

St. Francis College