Almost one week ago, many of us were amazed to experience a dust storm in the evening hours. The wind blew the arid soil from the Midwest into the air, resulting in an eerie brown color in the atmosphere, appearing like fog in the sky.

Dust is made of fine particles of solid matter. On earth, it generally consists of particles from various sources, such as soil lifted by the wind.

Dust storms arise when a strong wind blows loose sand and dirt from a dry surface. These storms can reduce visibility, disrupt transportation, and pose a health risk.

How analogous this can be to our spiritual lives! When counter-cultural beliefs surface (especially those in conflict with our Catholic beliefs) and seem to gather support and momentum as they blow across the thought process on many people, things can become confusing and blurred.

We ask ourselves: “Is this right or wrong? Who is giving us the truth? Who is not? What is one to believe?”

We need to protect our spiritual health today from such “blowing winds” by turning to the guidance of our Catholic Church. These Teachings have been given to us by Jesus and through the work of the Holy Spirit.

We can secure our positions in turbulent times by what we have been taught in this regard, always remembering that, when we do so, we are grounded in and protected by our loving Lord. 

By: Deacon Tom Gryzbek