From the Friars: Let Us Begin Again

There are many different philosophies of history, but in general they are either cyclic or linear. The cyclic claim that history keeps repeating itself and has no ultimate goal. The linear proposes that there is progress and usually, that there is an end point toward which we are heading. Of course, the Christian view is that history is moving toward the second coming of Jesus, which will be the end of time and of this world. However, there are obviously cyclic patterns in the passing of time. The days, months and years all have characteristics that repeat themselves over and over again. Also, certain patterns of development and decline are seen to recur in civilizations and human organizations.

St. Bonaventure, and other theologians, have written about exitus and reditus. These Latin words mean going forth and returning. Everything comes forth from God, our Creator, and will ultimately return to Him in Christ. Hence, history is not either cyclic or linear but both/and. There is one great circular journey, and all the little repeating events are meant to teach us about, and train us for, our ultimate goal of union with the Holy Trinity. In God Himself there is the eternal generation, or going forth, of the Son and His giving of Himself back to the Father in the Holy Spirit.

Now that we have had a quick theology lesson, we can apply it to our life today as we begin the cycle again of a New Year and liturgical Ordinary Time. Beginning new cycles can be difficult, like getting out of bed on a Monday morning. St. Francis used to admonish the brothers: “Let us begin again, for until now we have done very little.” We have been given the gift of fortitude in our Baptism. Part of this virtue is the strength to endure the recurring hardships of life with patience and even joy. The Holy Spirit helps us to go forward with renewed zeal despite the apparently boring repetitions of daily life. “Renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10)

God’s Peace to all.

— Fr. Peter