We must never compare ourselves with others. Nor should we compare the present with the past and idealize the "good old days." But we should compare the present sufferings with the future glory. When we do this, our sufferings seem like nothing. We are filled with hope and become able to endure anything, even the burdens and boredom of everyday life.

When we fix our eyes on the future glory, we do not escape from present realities. In fact, this gives us the strength to enter into the present sufferings and trials with no reservations. This kind of religion is not the "opium of the people," as Marx alleged. Rather, a religion of hope is the only thing that is not the opium of the people. Communism, capitalism, and secularism are the real opium of the people, and the effects of these "drugs" are starting to wear off. We need hope to live, not mind-games, ideologies, or petty pleasures. We need Christ in us, our Hope of glory (Col 1:27).

Nihil Obstat:  Reverend Ralph J. Lawrence, April 10, 1999

Imprimatur:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 16, 1999