Dear Parishioners:
The beginning of a New Year impels us to implement new resolutions, to be positive and start on the right foot. Let me give you some tips from Holy Scripture.
For example, Phil. 4:4-5 motivates us to rejoice in the Lord always as well as to let everyone experience one’s gentle and understanding heart. As we keep on reading, the Holy Author calls us to avoid anxiety, to resort to prayer and thanksgiving, to bring our requests to God and to focus on Jesus Christ, our Lord (Phil 4:6- 7).
Another great suggestion in that short section is to fill our minds with whatever is truthful, holy, just, pure, lovely and noble (v. 8). A human being’s inner desire is to fight against falsehood and to dwell in truth. It is a great resolution to be implemented, especially nowadays when we are bombarded mercilessly.
In the Letter to the Colossians important tips are found. The Apostle calls us to be rooted in Christ by accepting him, by letting faith be our principle, and by overflowing in generosity (Col 2:6-7). The Apostle expects from us to put to death what is earthly in my life (Col 3:5). The believers’ eyes and hearts should be focused on Jesus Christ and his eternal promises.
As God’s chosen people, we are called to clothe ourselves in Christ. Yes, to wear the garment of compassion, kindness, humility and meekness to bear with one another patiently (Col 3:12- 13). On verse 16 we read: Let the word of God dwell in you in all its richness. That is a statement we have not clearly understood yet. Followers of Christ must always imitate the Lord and let his wisdom shine. Feeling responsible for the wellbeing (that is salvation) of my brother or sister is crucial to our Christian faith (v. 17). A heart of solidarity is so much needed today!
Deal wisely with those who do not belong to the Church (Col 4:5-6). On many occasions religion and Church were and have been used as a weapon. No longer so: let us preserve unity and harmony within the Christian Family. No more wars or division in the name of the Lord!
Dear Friends in Christ, I pray you find all these tips helpful. As we journey together in life, let us encourage and build up each other (1 Thes 5:11). The support of family, friends and community will be the proof that we are surrounded by the love of God. May God’s blessings rest on you all!
Fr. Eduardo
