We Christians are now working under exceptionally difficult circumstances. About one-third of the people conceived in the USA over the last twenty years have been killed by surgical abortion. Many more have been killed by abortifacient pills and devices. This means far fewer workers are available for God's harvest. Moreover, many Christians remain immature. They cannot be entrusted with greater responsibilities in God's work because they have not been faithful in managing the money and possessions the Lord has given them (Lk 16:10-11). Also, many leaders in the Church are avaricious like the Pharisees (Lk 16:14). All this makes it that much harder to do God's work. Workers for the Lord often receive little support personally, financially, emotionally, and practically. That's why many of God's workers repeatedly consider quitting.

However, the good news is that by God's grace we can cope with every circumstance (Phil 4:12). In Jesus, we have strength for everything (Phil 4:13); despite the difficulties, the Lord "will supply [our] needs fully" (Phil 4:19). Though temporarily frustrated and often unsupported, we keep working for the Lord. It is a privilege to work for Him, even under the worst circumstances. "He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him by your service, past and present, to His holy people" (Heb 6:10). Therefore, take courage and continue to work for the Lord (see Hg 2:4).

Rescript:  †Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 6, 2010

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