Are Dreams Just That?

Are Dreams Just That?

Last night I was with Bishop Zubic in front of a very large audience.  I got up to read the gospel and then was asked to give the homily.  As I stood at the pulpit the words that echoed from my voice were, “We are in a crisis!”  A second time my words were loud and clear, “We are in a crisis!”  

The bishop looked astounded and perhaps most of the people also were taken aback as these words said more than an announcement of fear and accusation of everyone putting blame on themselves.  What would a pronouncement as this mean to those who were shocked if not defensive at such a quick and endearing message pointing to everyone in the Church?

I had to look at Psalm 55 and recount the very words against a friend or someone I trusted;  “I tremble at the shouts of the foe, at the cries of the wicked; for they bring down evil upon me.  They assail me with fury.  My heart is stricken within me, death’s terror is on me, trembling and fear fall upon me.”  (Ps 55: 2 - 5).

There is realization that something is missing within the gathering of our people; where are the prayers that used to attract God and bring a peaceful approach to our souls?  How about the rosaries and willing fasting that spoke to God in a manner of making the Lord’s presence a priority in our daily lives?  How about the thanksgiving that no longer says “Your will be done?”

Perhaps this dream was a reminder that all of us have been reluctant in our devotions especially with those to whom I was speaking were a number of apostates that came because they were coerced into being here today.  

Maybe, just possibly I was speaking to the many who have decided that the Church no longer has meaning for them.  

If my foe had viewed me with contempt, from that I could hide.  But it was you, my other self, my comrade and friend, You whose company I enjoyed, at whose side I walked in procession in the house of God.  At dusk, dawn, and noon I will grieve and complain, and my prayer will be heard.  God, who sits enthroned forever, will hear me and humble them.  For they will not mend their ways; they have no fear of God.  Cast your care upon the Lord, who will give you support.  God will never allow the righteous to stumble.  (Ps 55: 13 - 15, 18, 20, 23).

Yes; there are far too many Christians who have found other paths to success and left the Church to abide alone without their help or support.  Here is where the words “We are in a crisis” fits the current position of trusting in our Christ who gave himself over to an enemy that is named Satan; but for only a short period of time.

If these promotions of spiritual entities do not wake us up then we are in a Crisis, and we shall all become in a crisis mode of no return.

Ralph B. Hathaway