What’s Right in the World

   “You will hear of wars and reports of wars; see that you are not alarmed, for these things must happen, but it will not yet be the end.” (Matt 24: 6)

   We are bombarded day in and day out with news of wars and reports of wars.  The world seems to be in total disarray and getting worse.  News organization rarely, if ever, report factually anymore.  If it is bad they strive to make it appear even worse; if it is good it is ignored.  It seems to be a competition to see who can paint the most catastrophic image of events.

   How I wish every newscast would devote just a few minutes to highlighting something good.  Perhaps if the beauty and good that exists were better reported more people would practice it.

   I’ve seen people in a grocery store hand a few dollars to the person in front of them who didn’t have enough to pay for their food.  Food banks, shelters and many other charitable services routinely help those in need.  These are the things that need to be highlighted.  When we begin to see the good in others I believe it helps bring out the good in ourselves.

   Great good and beauty exists in the world, but we must look to see it.  Can anyone deny the miracle of a newborn baby?  How jaded must one be to not smile at the laugh of a youngster?  The love of a spouse brings great joy and happiness throughout a lifetime.  Friendships form bonds that last forever.  The love of God and our neighbors creates beauty in a sinful world.

   Will it fix the world?  No, the world is broken by sin and can’t be fixed until our Lord comes again.  Can it make society a little better and more humane?   Yes, it can.

Lord, it seems we only see the evil.

Help us to see the good in others.

Open our eyes to the beauty of Your creation.

Help us love one another.

Amen