Since the beginning of the Trump presidency you may have noticed an increase in the number of articles and books exploring the topic of 'the decline of America.'

Several authors have connected various dots to predict the erosion of this wonderful experiment in democracy we call America. They point to the increased influence of money and big corporations on our politics, the widening polarization of political parties, and the growing hopelessness many people in the hollowed out middle class feel as their dreams of prosperity become more and more unrealistic. They see hope slipping away.

And the fear of our demise is having no small affect on our citizenry. We feel jittery, stressed, and downright scared.

And while confusing and tumultuous times may be new to us - they are not to Jesus.

In this Sunday’s Gospel we will hear Jesus talk about the bewildering and unpredictable times of his era. He will describe an approaching epoch that is as distressing, difficult, and absolutely unavoidable.

And his advice to his disciples is also advice for us. Jesus says is to take courage, have faith, and endure. Jesus asks us not to look at the threatening circumstances but the faithful provision he will bring about.

Jesus tells his disciples he is well aware of the matters at hand and he assures them that it's all part of the plan.

This means the job of the disciple is to keep on keeping on. It's to embrace the difficulties we face with faith and courage, believing that God is very present with us through every challenge and will bring about a resolution.

Friends, let these uncertain times form in us unwavering faith. This temporary craziness does not take away from God’s ultimate promise of peace and purpose. So let us not be weary in doing what is right.