It is difficult to follow Jesus above all else, trying to remain faithful in the world while not being attached to and shaped by the world (John 17:10-15). In our current climate, for example, politics gets elevated to the level of religious fervor, leaving communities, churches and even families divided.
But the call of Christ in our Baptism must remain first in our allegiance. Paul’s advice to Titus and the early Church is relevant for today. Do we conduct ourselves with dignity? Are we mindful of our words, in person or online? Do we rationalize bad behavior by dressing it up in Christian language? Do we strive for integrity in our beliefs, recognizing that “godless ways and worldly desires” can tempt us away from living “temperately, justly, and devoutly in this age” (v. 12)?
Trust in God: "Nothing can happen to me that God doesn't want. And all that He wants, no matter how bad it may appear to us, is really for the best." St. Thomas More
Steve words of encouragement through these hard times. We need to keep trying eh? LFF my friend Laura that was attacked by a donkey needs more prayers. The bites were so deep that they penetrated the muscle and got infected. Prayers the infection clears up and she doesn't have to have surgery. Blessings to all the LFF especially Vicky and Garrett and any others needing extra hands to help through their days. May We all see/feel and spread the love of God through all the world.
AMEN!
"The call of Christ must remain first." Amen!
"Lord Jesus, fill my heart with love, gratitude and generosity. Make me a faithful and zealous servant for you. May I generously pour out my life in loving service for you and for others, just as you have so generously poured yourself out in love for me." Amen
Steve, your reference to politics caused me to respond in this way: much too much is labeled political differences. Honesty, decency and treatment of others are core Godly values, not to be relegated to political differences. Thank you for unleashing this belief of mine.
Steve, your reflection is spot on. How do I need to show up differently so people could accuse me of being a loyal follower? How wonderful that would be. Lord, be with Vicky and Garrett and their medical, legal and advocacy team. Ensure they are persistent, resilient, courageous and strong on this journey. Amen.
Lord please hear our prayers and bring your light to all those experiencing natural disasters, as well as those in Haiti, the Middle East, Ukraine, Russia, Darfur, the Sudan, in addition to all those suffering around the world - also for their strength, courage and resilience to continue walking in faith. Send them your light. Father in Heaven, have mercy on us and on the whole world! You sent Your Son, the Prince of Peace, for the salvation of the world. We pray that the Peace of Christ will reign in Haiti, the Middle East, Ukraine, Russia, Darfur and Sudan. Please protect and send aid to those in need and all who are at-risk. We pray for peace and rebuilding– we who are working towards it and for all those who are suffering or in danger from conflicts. We pray for an end to violence and war – we pray for wisdom for all leaders who have a hand in this. Lord God please help those in most need of thy mercy. Amen
Amen...thank you Steve, thank you Salina...just what I needed to hear on this beautiful morning
John 14:23, "Whoever loves Me will keep My Word, and My Father will love him, and We will come to him!" What does His Word say this morning? *** We are saved by His grace in Titus 2:11, "God’s grace has now appeared. By His grace, God offers to save all people!" *** His grace does these in our lives in Titus 2:12, "His grace teaches us to say no to godless ways and sinful desires. We must control ourselves. We must do what is right. We must lead godly lives in today’s world!" *** We live this blessed hope by His grace in Titus 2:13, "That’s how we should live as we wait for the blessed hope God has given us. We are waiting for Jesus Christ to appear in his glory. He is our great God and Savior!" ******* It is not what we do (work), but what He has done (grace) in Titus 2:14-15, "He gave Himself for us. By doing that, He set us free from all evil. He wanted to make us pure. He wanted us to be hHs very own people. He wanted us to desire to do what is good. These are the things you should teach. Encourage people and give them hope. Correct them with full authority. Don’t let anyone look down on you!" Amen!!!
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Thank you Saint Jude, for hearing my prayers. Most holy Apostle, St. Jude, faithful servant and friend of Jesus, the Church honors and invokes you universally, as the patron of difficult cases, of things almost despaired of, Pray for me, I am so helpless and alone. Intercede with God for me that He bring visible and speedy help where help is almost despaired of. Come to my assistance in this great need that I may receive the consolation and help of heaven in all my necessities, tribulations, and sufferings, particularly - (make your request here) - and that I may praise God with you and all the saints forever. I promise, O Blessed St. Jude, to be ever mindful of this great favor granted me by God and to always honor you as my special and powerful patron, and to gratefully encourage devotion to you. Amen