The past several months we have been plagued with one devastating disaster after another – heat wave, wildfires, bad air quality, and a pandemic of biblical proportion.  In our country alone intense wildfires have left many families homeless. Evacuees have the added pressure of finding a safe place amid the corona virus pandemic.

As fear and confusion continue to loom, the light at the end of the tunnel seems to remain very distant and hazy, that one can’t help but ask, “When will this ever end?” Or, “How much more can we take?”

In his letter to all of us, Bishop Oscar Cantu, offers some words of encouragement as he reminds us that we are not alone.  God continues to be with us.  Bishop writes: “God is our refuge and strength, especially in moments of darkness.  His love for us is fiercer than any fire, stronger than any disease, steadier than the unknown.”  These words of hope remind us that amidst all these horrific experiences, our God is still in control of everything.  We just need to trust in God’s providence – that eventually all of these shall pass.

As we continue to go through this time of testing, I encourage all of us to bolster our faith.  Let us strengthen our prayer life asking our God to give us the courage to live through these difficult times and the wisdom to understand God’s plan.  Let us also remember in our prayers everyone around us, especially the most vulnerable among us, the fire fighters, the first responders, and all who work tirelessly to alleviate these disasters.

I believe, this is also the time to realize what we should value here on earth the most – the protection of our natural resources, respect for mother earth.

There’s no doubt in mind that our Blessed Mother and all our saints are one with us in our prayers. For in their moments of suffering and challenges, they never lost hope. They were one with Jesus who remained victorious over his cross.

Yes, there is light at the end of the tunnel. And all of these disasters shall pass away. If we can just aline our hope and faith with Jesus as He was one with God.  For with God, “nothing is impossible.”

Fr. Ritche