Glory

Some of us have a yearning for things of the past: the golden age of decades ago or the glories of centuries gone by.

This yearning may find resonance in these words from today’s first reading (Haggai 2:1-9):

Who is left among you
that saw this house in its former glory?

And how do you see it now?

For some among us, the glories of the past seem forever gone and we who dwell in this present mediocrity are doomed to a darkening future.

But now take courage... says the LORD.

Take courage,
all you people of the land,
says the LORD, and work!
For I am with you,
says the LORD of hosts..
And my spirit continues in your midst;
do not fear!

With God, our future will be glorious...

And more!

Greater will be the future glory of this house
than the former, says the LORD of hosts;
And in this place I will give you peace,
says the LORD of hosts!