Alexander the Great (356 BC-323 BC) was the king of Macedonia who went on to conquer the Persians, Syrians, and Egyptians and reached as far as India. While he was marching through Asia Minor, he became seriously ill. Among the many physicians with the king, only Philip of Acarnania had the confidence to treat the king. 

However, he was accused by some people of conspiring with the Persian king to poison Alexander. Alexander, on the contrary, never doubted the integrity of Philip and, with total trust, drank the medicine prepared by him.

Alexander was a brilliant man, and he could easily figure out who was worthy of his trust. But most people are not like Alexander, and they often put their trust in the wrong people and for the wrong reasons that lead them to disastrous consequences. There is nothing wrong in trusting people, provided they are worthy of our trust. In fact, we cannot go on in our life without trusting others.

However, we should really learn to trust in the Lord always. Why? Because as we read in today’s first reading, “Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose hope is the Lord. He is like a tree planted near running waters; it fears not the heat when it comes; its leaves stay green” (Jeremiah 17:5-8). When we trust in the Lord, the Lord will keep us in perfect peace (Isaiah 26:3). 

The Bible reminds us that God is a shield to all who trust in him (Psalm 18:30). If we are able to put our total trust in the Lord, then we will have the courage to say, “The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold” (Psalms 182). 

The Book of Proverbs in the Bible tells us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths” (3:5). When we trust the Lord, a beautiful thing happens to us, and that is, we will not be afraid of anything or anybody (Psalm 56:11). Hence, let us remember to trust in the Lord always in our life. Then we will be like a tree planted near running waters. 

Dr. Scott Hahn’s Conference on March 19, 2022
As scheduled, Dr. Scott Hahn could not come for his conference on Saturday, January 29, 2022, because of canceled flights. However, he has agreed to come on Saturday, March 19, 2022. Those who have already purchased the tickets can attend the conference. Others can still buy tickets either through their website (stpaulcenter.com/product/palmcoast/), by phone (740-264-9535), or at the door on the conference day. Kindly plan to attend and bring your family and friends.

Presentation on the Science of the Shroud of Turin by Dr. Jess Socrates
The Shroud of Turin Conference with Dr. John and Rebeca Johnson has been postponed because of their inability to come as scheduled. However, they have promised to come at a later date. In the meantime, our parishioner Dr. Jess Socrates has come forward to give a presentation on the Science of the Shroud of Turin on Saturday, April 2, from 9.30 am to 11.30 am. Dr. Socrates is a pathologist, and he has worked with Dr. John Jackson and has given many presentations on the Science of the Shroud of Turin in various parts of the country. Kindly plan to attend this conference also.