It is very difficult to face the challenges of life completely alone. When we are united with others in a bond of love we are strengthened, and when we encourage one another we can face anything. Paul discovered this - perhaps we have too. It is good to have a circle of friends of like mind and heart with whom we share our lives. Community nourishes the soul and true community can only be formed with love, trust, and openness - not by force or authority.

The early Christians expected Jesus to return at any time - today, tomorrow, or next week. There are so many stories in the New Testament that end with 'stay awake' or 'you know not the day or hour'. We do not live with the same expectancy. But we too must always be ready to meet the Lord. Our lives can end suddenly for no one is guaranteed a long life. But often it is a matter of time slipping by until we realize that we have missed so many chances to love and to grow spiritually. We do not have forever and we should resist the temptation to put things off to the future. We must treat each day as the precious gift it is for each day is unrepeatable. Treat each day as if it were your last - not in a negative or morbid sense but with a sense of joy and fulfillment. This is the day the Lord has made - let us rejoice.