Save me, O Lord, in your mercy. — Psalm 109:26

Mass readings: Romans 8:31-39 / Luke 13:31-35 

No One. Eventually. 

Today’s first reading opens with St. Paul’s often quoted question, “If God is for us, who can be against us?” It’s a rhetorical question, of course. The expected but unnecessary answer is, “Nobody” or “Nothing.” Cynics may respond, “Are you kidding? ‘Who?’ Hordes of people! Terrorists, drug lords, organized crime, violent gangs, bloodthirsty dictators. See how that idea flies in North Korea, Zimbabwe, Burma, and Sudan?” 

At the heart of this conundrum is the “now but not yet” nature of the Kingdom of God. Has Jesus conquered sin and death once and for all? Absolutely. Does it always look like it’s happened? Read the newspapers. It’s probably the biggest challenge to faith. We’re called to believe in victory when we feel buried under mountains of defeat. 

Prayer: Lord Jesus, help me believe that You have turned defeat into victory.