“Knee high by the Fourth of July” is an old American farming proverb that refers to the expected height of corn by July 4^th. Traditionally, it means if the corn is about knee-high by Independence Day, the crop is on track for a good harvest in the fall.

As I look out the back (south) windows at Holy Martyrs Church, the corn in the field is doing very well and has passed that knee-high goal for this time of the year.

I am amazed, though, how the growing corn looks so green, whereas the surrounding grass is turning lighter shades of brown, due to the summer heat (just like the grass by my home).

Only the flowers and plants at home that are watered regularly are faring okay.

I wondered how the corn by the church could be doing so well with no watering or irrigation being done in the area. In God’s hands, all things are possible.

All of this reminds me about the troubles we see in the world today. What seemed like bright horizons and prosperous growth among and between peoples seems to have taken a downturn, due to global geopolitical issues.

Like the corn by Holy Martyrs though, I am still optimistic about the future. You see, I know that Jesus is present. I know that He is nourishing and helping us with the heavenly graces we receive in the Sacraments. Through that help, we will be okay, because in God’s hands everything is possible.

By: Deacon Tom Gryzbek