Thursday - Fifth Week of Lent
March 22, 2018
When I think about today's readings, I realized I truly believe:
- God continually shows me His unconditional love and support, despite my "humanness."
- Jesus, as part of the Holy Trinity has always existed, yet for a short while, He became human to give me a chance for eternal life.
- God keeps His Word and asks me to strive to keep it also. When I fail and ask for forgiveness, He is there to hear me and forgive me especially in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
- God's covenant with Abraham and His Chosen People was expanded by Jesus to include both Jews and Gentiles in His new covenant. So I along with everyone else on earth are loved by Him.
- Jesus sought to glorify His Father not Himself by following God's will for his life on earth. I try my best to follow Jesus' example, but often pride gets in the way.
- God wants my freely given love, adoration, and gratitude. He is patiently waiting for me to just ask or talk with Him.
Like so many people, I have built and continue to build on my faith through life's challenges and every day experiences. I have been blessed with good family and friends as I journey forward. During my first cancer diagnosis in 2003, I remember silently asking "God don't leave me now." He along with many prayer warriors from all faiths, excellent medical care, and family got me through it all.
In response to Jesus saying "if I glorify myself, I glorify nothing," I'm trying to work on what humility is and how to incorporate it into my life. Humility as I understand it, is not easy for me. I am praying for God's help to listen more and look to him, not to myself for answers. For me, belief despite life's "realities" gives me periods of inner peace and less need to be in control. Slowly, I am filling that "hole in my soul" by taking time to be with God and others who are seeking to grow in faith on our journey through this life.
Linda Theis
St. Anthony Parishioner (and member of the Adult Faith Formation Committee, volunteer at McAnthony Window)
