Parishioners of St. Thomas and St. Columban in International Falls and Littlefork were reminded recently to turn to the Word of God for encouragement at all times and in all circumstances.

"This past two weeks we have heard a clear proclamation from the prophet, Isaiah, and Jesus Christ," the Hear and See the Scriptures portion of the Aug. 16 church bulletin said.

That proclamation was a reminder not only to the people of those times and places, but to the people of all times and all places that "we must have ears to hear and eyes to see," the bulletin stated.

Whether reading the Word or hearing it in Mass, taking the meaning in and holding it in the heart and mind is not a passive act, but an active one.

"Sadly, many people do not hear or see the Gospel of Jesus Christ," the bulletin said. Yet, it is always there, ready for those who will have the ears to hear and the eyes to see it.