In hindsight, one of the great events in life for me and my wife was the time that we moved to Abilene. I will admit that we were both disheartened as we noticed the terrain turned increasingly flat and arid, and the trees seemed to shrink in size the further we traveled west on I-20. And, while the prospect of taking a university teaching job was terribly exciting for me and a blessing for my pregnant wife, since she could now start her life as a stay-at-home mom, we were equally perplexed that God was calling the three of us out into the West Texas desert to start our new adventure.  

In the first reading, we hear about the “real desert” that the Israelites endured for 40 years, which, for those that remained patient and trusting in God’s promises, led to the inheritance of the breathtaking land of Zion. Similarly, in the second reading, we read about the farmer that was rewarded with a bountiful harvest after patiently waiting for God to send down the rain that made the dry land fertile and fruitful.  

In the Gospel, Jesus, speaking to the followers of the desert preacher, John the Baptist, encourages the people to take the next step by following Him in their quest for true healing, peace and joy. While he cautions them not to expect an earthly reward comprised of lavish wealth, He does promise complete and miraculous healing if they would only remain faithful.  

After 26 years of life in the glorious West Texas town of Abilene, Barb and I can now look back in hindsight and see that, despite our lack of understanding, our Faith in Him has been richly rewarded beyond anything we could have ever imagined.   

Are you willing to stay faithful, even in the desert?

Bob Moore is our Director of Religious Education and a father of five. He has a passion for the Catholic faith and works hard to make sure the families of our parish find their second home here at Holy Family.