Fr Ed Homily 9-24-20

Vanity of Vanities

What a depressing reading! Nothing new under the sun. Obviously, this person didn’t live in Wisconsin! Especially at this time of year. In the last two weeks, we’ve seen the corn go from green to brown. The soybeans have gone from green to a golden glow. The sumac and maples are bright red in color. The birch and other trees are adding yellows and oranges.

Although some people will wear shorts until it is below zero, others are putting on sweaters and hoodies. The annual “airing out” (notice that I didn’t say “washing”) of the camouflage hunting clothes is on the porch. And I’m sure you’ve noticed that pumpkin spice and caramel apple coffees have reappeared. And have you noticed that the monarch butterflies are heading south with the geese and other migratory birds?

Or you can be like Qoheleth and complain that all of this is a sign of what’s to come. It’s too depressing to say we get up every morning. Do our job. Eat. And sleep. If we do, then we are not noticing the grandeur God gives each of us. And you know what? Focusing on what we do is terribly selfish. Look at the people in your life every day. They’re changing, with or without you. Children are growing and learning. Co-workers are exploring new interests in their lives. The Church is implementing new programs to help people learn their faith, to be part of their faith.

Selfishness is looking inward. Selflessness is looking outward. It would be a sad world, indeed, if the world were only about me. I’m extremely fortunate because you’re all in this world. And you make this world a marvel to enjoy every day.

May the Lord bless you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen