There is nothing better than starting the new year off with a bit of inspiration. For this, I headed to church to celebrate the solemnity of Mary. The pastor of my NEW church is really and truly an amazing man. I have never met someone like him but he can make any message seem real and pertinent to your (anyone’s) life.
His homily was about how people say “I can’t wait until this year is over… the next will be better” and so on. He said that people need to remember that, in truth, each year is the same. We have blessings (more than we even realize), hurt, sorrow, pain, and things that just blow our minds. We can expect to have the same things this year coming as we did last year with just different circumstances.
I think that is a great way to think about things. It may have had a bad year for our family and we are hoping for a better next one. But, the truth is that we are beyond blessed with our family and friends and all the joys of our life. We have had some pain but God has been with us through it all… as He will be this next year.
The one thing that the priest said that is sticking with me that I really wanted to share with you all is this… Mary is a sign of a true disciple. She had moments in her life that she could have turned away from God and told him “no”… or said that He asked too much of her. She could have turned away. But, she didn’t. She pondered each situation and hardship or blessing put upon her. She didn’t react instantly… she thought about things. When we stop and ponder what it is that is causing us emotion, either good or bad, we allow the presence of God into that situation. No longer is it about US and OUR feelings. It is about Him.
So, I invite you as this new year starts to stop reacting and start pondering. Think before you speak or act. Allow the presence of God into your life and your situation. I wish you peace and love this new year.
I just know that when I allow God’s control over situations they do turn out for good in the end.
When I try to hurry them along or try to make them go the way I want instead of the way God wants that it doesn’t always turn out for good.
So, I hope I can keep my Me Wants and Me Desires out of situations and just ask God to direct me in the situations that arise in 2011.
Me too! Good luck to you!
Thank you, that is very good advice to follow.
Happy New Year, my sweet friend! I know we’ve lost touch some over the last few months, but know that I’m always here for you, and praying for you. May 2011 be a happy, healthy, and prosperous for you and your family!
P.S. It’s really scary (and kinda neat) that I recognized the sculpture above as Rodin’s “The Thinker”. It means I’m really learning something in school. Wow!! lol