My dear friends in Christ,
God’s wisdom challenges our human perspective and Christ calls us to a higher standard of religious practice. It is easy for us to accept God’s ways when things are going our way...but then comes the challenging moments in our relationships: betrayal, injustice, or even unfaithfulness. First the emotional pain sets in followed by frustration which turns into anger, and then in some cases, rage sets in. Can we ever be justified in our anger? Jesus offers us a wisdom that counsels reconciliation, faithfulness, and integrity--all manifestations of His radical call to shape our lives by love. God’s compassionate eyes are upon us, encouraging us to choose the path of life. Pope Francis tells us: “God’s world is a world where everyone feels responsible for the other, for the good of the other. This evening, in reflection, fasting and prayer, each of us deep down should ask ourselves: Is this really the world that I desire? Is this really the world that we all carry in our hearts? Is the world we want really a world of harmony and peace, in ourselves, in our relations with others, in families, in cities, in and between nations? And does not true freedom mean choosing ways in this world that lead to the good of all and are guided by love?” It’s about how we live together and work together as a community.
I would like to thank those who responded to my appeal (Elizabeth and Eleanor) for joining the cleaning team. I would also like to thank that special person who donated a brand new Shark vacuum cleaner to our parish. And finally, Happy Valentine’s day!
May God bless you all!
Fr. John