If we sow the wind, we will reap the whirlwind. We reap tornadoes, which bring destruction and chaos. Sowing the wind means blowing where we will (cf Jn 3:8), doing our own thing. If we act by our own authority and without God's approval, we will destroy ourselves (Hos 8:4). If we try to save our lives by taking charge of them and controlling them, we lose them (Lk 9:24-25) and destroy ourselves. If we give up doing our own thing and lose our lives to doing God's will, then we will save our lives.

Where have spiritual tornadoes wrecked your life? Is your marriage in ruins and your family in shambles? Is your parish in a state of confusion? Is your neighborhood marked by "disorderly conduct"? Tornadoes are repeatedly hitting our educational, political, and economic systems.

Spiritual tornadoes don't just "come out of thin air." They were caused, initiated, sown. We chased after the wind and wandered after our desires (Eccl 6:9). Repent of the wind of sin, rebellion, and self-centeredness. When the wind changes, the whirlwinds subside. The old song was right: "The answer, my friend, is blowing in the wind."

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, December 29, 2012

The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.