30 September, Friday — All Will Pass Away

Sep 30 – Memorial for St. Jerome, Priest and Doctor

St. Jerome (347-419) led a misspent youth. He later converted in theory, being baptised in 365, and then had a true conversion when he studied theology. He was a monk, and revised the Latin text of the Bible. The result of his 30 years of work was the Vulgate translation, which is still in use. He is a Doctor of the Church and Father of the Church. Since his own time, he has been associated in the popular mind with scrolls, writing, cataloguing, translating, etc. This led to those who work in such fields taking him as their patron – a man who knew their lives and problems.

• Patron Saint Index

Job 38:1,12-32,40:3-5
Lk 10:13-16

We have all heard the saying ‘This too shall pass’. Although it is not a biblical saying, it does relate somewhat to the ideology of the Christian mind. 

Life, as we know it presently, is very transient. By association, all that comes with it is also transient. The joys, sadness, triumphs, trials, or challenges that we face in this life are but temporary. They too shall pass. Although, when we are going through painful times, it may feel like a lifetime, it is only a speck on the timeline towards eternity.

This past year or so has been really difficult for some, life-altering for others. There are cases where people rise above the adversity and cases where selfishness is most apparent. As we journey together in this life, let us support each other emotionally by reaching out; spiritually by praying for; physically by helping out; whoever and whenever we can. 

While we are going through any difficult times, if we truly trust in our Lord, then we can take great comfort in His promise. All the evil, all the strife, all the sadness will pass. But His Word will remain. The peace and joy that only Jesus can give will replace all, eternally. That is something to look forward to.    

(Today’s OXYGEN by Winnie Kung)

Prayer: Our most merciful Lord, please grant us the grace of faith in the face of adversity. Help us to trust in You and your promise, that all will pass except for your Word.

Thanksgiving: Heavenly Father, we thank you for being there, walking with us during our difficulties even though we don’t often sense your presence. But You are always there, waiting for us to turn to You. Thank you for not abandoning us and for remembering us.