The Epistle for this Fourth Sunday after Trinity begins with one of many favorite verses. Romans 8:18 says, "I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us." These sacred words remind us that Christians have a different perspective on earthly life from the perspectives of other human beings. Even in the good times, careful consideration shows that earthly happiness and pleasure are fleeting. Each human individual has his/her times of trial, pain, and suffering. Every culture, nation, or social group has difficult times. A glance at events near or far shows diverse problems, disasters, and threats. Despite many blessings and joys, the realities of life on earth can be very disheartening.
However, as St. Paul also points out, the sufferings of this present time do not have the final word. Christians have faith and hope in Jesus Christ who suffered and died, but rose in glory. Because of Christ, we consider the glory that shall be revealed in us as members of the Body of Christ. Whatever the trials of our personal lives, our family, our particular church, our country, or the general human experience, we abide in Christian hope.
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