Got Milk?

Crystal and Hailey have been visiting family for the last week and a half for Spring Break. Hailey is the only one in our family who drinks milk anymore, so I haven’t had any in the fridge since they’ve been gone. However, yesterday I realized I needed to get some because they come back tomorrow. Hailey's got to have her cereal!

I went to Kroger, and surprisingly, they had some. I put a gallon in my basket and headed to the front. I noticed people around me loading their carts full of canned goods, meat, paper products, and frozen food. I’m willing to bet you’ve had a similar experience if you’ve been to the grocery store in the last few days. As I watched the frenzy ensue, a burst of adrenaline rushed through my body. By the time I reached the front, in addition to milk, I had a full basket of things I never had any intention of buying. A simple trip to the store for some milk ended up costing over $50.

Panic… fear… these things can be and are contagious. Whether it’s in the presence of others, on social media, or watching the news, it only takes one declaration of fear to infect an entire group of people, or even an entire country and world.

Brothers and sisters, as we navigate these uncertain waters together, we must reject the lies of fear and disarm it by proclaiming the truth of God’s faithfulness, love, and peace. Psalm 53:6 says, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” Peace is the enemy of panic. Faithfulness is the enemy of fear. Though these days may seem never-ending, only God is eternal. Rest in God’s forever-ness this night, and be at peace.

Almighty God, we entrust all who are dear to us to your never-failing care and love, for this life and the life to come, knowing that you are doing for them better things than we can desire or pray for; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May the Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace. May the blessing of God almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, keep you safe and make you strong, this day and always.

Fr. Brian+