An Eternal Perspective - The Spoken Word

Our common lot is to be born into an imperfect world, filled with disappointment and unanswered questions. It is natural, in these circumstances, to worry about the future. We wonder if things will work out for us-and for our loved ones.

Too often we try to make sense of life based on a very narrow perspective, which is somewhat like trying to understand the plot of a novel after reading only one page. A perspective that is limited to what we can see, feel, touch, and explain right now will leave us unsatisfied and longing for something more, something deeper. A larger, more expansive, even eternal perspective teaches us that good can come of bad, strength can be borne of weakness, and joy can come on the other side of sorrow.

We are all called upon to overcome obstacles of various kinds. This is necessary in order to fulfill our life's purpose. Each challenge we face here can prepare us for something much greater hereafter. This life is a laboratory for eternity: we learn and grow; in time, we become better, wiser, more understanding. Distressing questions are ultimately answered, life's injustices are eventually resolved, and what seems impossible becomes reality.

So try to accentuate the positive, and hold on to the assurance of good things to come. We simply cannot cower in fear or let go of hope.

Many centuries ago, an Irish poet penned inspired lines of hope that have since been set to music and sung through many generations. The lyrics of "Be Thou My Vision" speak of confidence in the present and faith in the future, the kind of eternal perspective that will bring us safely home:

Great God of heaven,My victory won,May I reach heaven's joys, Bright heaven's Sun!
Heart of my own heart,Whatever befall,Still be my vision, O Ruler of all.

1. Translated by Mary E. Byrne (1905), versified by Eleanor H. Hull (1912), alt.

Episode 4415. Aired April 27, 2014