Todays' Scripture

What a challenging first reading today! (Romans 12:5-16ab) Saint Paul says to the Romans, that it is not enough just to exercise your gifts--it is not enough just to follow the rules of Christianity. One must go the extra mile and live the Christian life with gusto and joy.

How is that done? With "the grace given to us" by God. It is not enough to prophesy--we must be "in proportion to the faith." It is not enough to contribute--we must do so "in generosity." It is not enough to lead--we must do so "with diligence." It is not enough to do acts of mercy--we must do them "with cheerfulness".

Our faith is not merely rules for their own sake. Our faith is living the Love of our God made man so all will experience His Love for themselves for all eternity.

Do not grow slack in zeal,
be fervent in spirit,
serve the Lord.
Rejoice in hope,
endure in affliction,
persevere in prayer.

Renew your own faith, so that you may serve Christ through serving others. Read Scripture, pray, go to Mass, say the Rosary, meditate on God's burning and unending love for you, His creation. Do this daily. Only by hiding in the heart of Christ and feeding on His strength, can we have the strength to do His will and show His Love to His creation.
Anima Christi
Soul of Christ, sanctify me.
Body of Christ, heal me.
Blood of Christ, drench me.
Water from the side of Christ, wash me.
Passion of Christ, strengthen me.
Good Jesus, hear me.
In Your wounds shelter me.
From turning away keep me.
From the evil one protect me.
At the hour of my death call me.
Into Your presence lead me,
to praise You with all Your saints for ever and ever.
~Amen.