It is so much easier to destroy than to create. The recent terrorist attacks around the world testify to this. As we lament the horror of destruction, we would do well to remember our call to be co-creators of the world with God. As we reflect on the apocalyptic literature in Scripture, which reminds us of how unreliable our human-made structures can be, let us pray for the courage and perseverance to build up in the face of so much tearing-down.
What part of me can I hold out to God for more upbuilding? What part of the world around me can I build up?
—Michael Lamanna, S.J. is a Jesuit scholastic of the USA Northeast Jesuit province. He is currently studying philosophy at Loyola University Chicago.