In the end, Light and Love will reign...

I have been listening to people sharing their opinions and talking about their fears and anxieties with regard to the U. S. presidential election. In two days, those of us who live in the U.S. will vote (if we haven't already voted in the early voting process). I've listened to people on both sides of the party line, and frankly I am concerned by how many Christians are adamant that "their side" is correct and the "other side" is evil.

In the readings for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time, the Holy Spirit invites us to reflect on the Great Commandment: "Hear, O people! The Lord our God is One, the Lord alone! Therefore, you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. And you shall love your neighbor as yourself."

I am convinced that no matter which candidate or party wins in this year's election, it is, in the scope of historical and eternal understanding, only temporary. Presidential terms are limited. Earthly rulers are mortal. They will not last.

The only thing that will last forever is Love. Love will outlast everything.

I think the more important question is "Who or what do I love the most?" Do I love a particular politician or party? Do I love a particular ideology? Do I love a certain perspective?

Or do I love God? Do I love God wholly above all else? Do I love God with all my heart, all my soul, all my mind, and all my strength? Do I love God with my entire being? Do I love God enough to trust God more than anything else?

And do I live my love for God by showing love for my neighbors? Do I love everyone I encounter and all people who share this home we call planet Earth? Am I patient with all people? Am I kind toward all people? Do I put the needs of others before my own needs? Do act with the good of others in mind? (See 1 Corinthians 13 for a description of how to live with True Love.)

One of my favorite sayings is "In the end everything will be okay. If it's not okay, it's not the end." (Fernando Sabino, Portuguese author) I've amended the saying a little: "In the end Light and Love will reign. If it's still dark and if people are still suffering and sorrowful, it's not the end."

And even if things aren't okay and there is still pain and hate and sorrow, Love will carry us through all the difficulty. Faith is knowing that Love is the Ultimate Force, even in the midst of struggle, pain, and sorrow. Hope is living with the knowledge that Light and Love will win.