"Give people hope"

On Thursday night a prominent politician gave his farewell speech as he retired from Parliament after many years of service. I found his final words inspiring. He said, ''We are here (in Parliament) to give people hope, hope of a better life.'' Jesus could have said the same words for he came to bring us an abundant life. There are many reports of people who have died clinically but have been restored to life by the skill of doctors. They tell of their experience of entering into God's glory. They say that they have felt so much incredible love that they wanted to stay there forever but they were told that they have to return to earth. Many are asked, ''What did you do with the life I gave you?'' When they return to life on earth they are transformed, conscious that they have received a second chance to love more and learn as much as possible about the Father, Jesus and the holy Spirit through reflecting deeply on the Word in the Bible. Jeremiah in today's first reading (20:10-13) echoes those experiences when he expresses his great hope in the saving power of God. His enemies are plotting against him but he continues to trust in the Father who loves him. ''The Lord is at my side, a mighty hero. Sing to the Lord, praise the Lord, for he has delivered the soul of the needy from the hands of evil men.'' Help us, Lord, to grow in faith, hope and charity to live in your love now and forever. Amen.