Why does it seem so much harder these days to cope with the problems in our country and world? Throughout history there have always been hard times. What’s different, some say, is the screen in front of our face. All day long. Getting constant updates. One commentator said we should read or watch the news once a day, and then turn it off. Get on with your day. Do you work. Love your family. Say your prayers.

Today’s apocalyptic readings reveal that humanity continues to face daunting times. Empires rise and fall. There are wars and earthquakes. Fear and unrest. It’s part of life, then and now. The question is: how do we cope?