Be Patient

Within a couple hours I heard conflicting reports about the Holy Father. First, there was the report that Pope Francis had already passed and that Rome was just waiting to get things in order before they let everyone know. Then I read a report that said he is really doing fine, and there is nothing to worry about. Finally I came across a doctor who said the prognosis is grim and that we should expect the Pope to pass in the next day or two. Which is correct? Or, is there another option?

We are so used to having information available seconds after an event occurs (even from another continent) that we tend to presume that whatever is said is accurate. And then, we get this. As I have said before, the greatest thing about the internet is that we can make information available quickly; and the worst thing about the internet is that we can make information available quickly (i.e. the wrong information).

Because of this common experience, at times like this we need to do our best not to presume on quick accurate information. We need to be willing to be without "the latest" information. We should be praying for the Pope, and asking God to help us to be patient for whatever His providence holds for the Holy Father and for us. It is harder to live like we are in the wonderful and glorious middle ages, but sometimes we need to do so. As one commentator said, the stress of conflicting reports is more agonizing than knowing nothing at all.

Hold fast. Keep praying. Do not get caught up in the stream of information. We do not need to know everything. All we really need to know is what God chooses to give us, and He will do so at the right time. As the first reading for Mass yesterday said:

"Set your heart right and be steadfast, and do not be hasty in time of calamity."